Celebrating Apprenticeships

My name is Dhimple Patel, I am currently in the final year of my level 6 Register Nurse Degree Apprenticeship (Child Branch - 4 year program) at BPP University.  I have worked a Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) for Children for 15 years with most of my time specialising cross the Cardiology services. I currently work as Ventricular Assist Device (VAD/mechanical heart) Specialist Senior Associate Carer at GOSH.

There were many driving forces at play when I decided to apply for an apprenticeship in nursing. Having the opportunity to work alongside and learn from industry professionals was a very important deciding factor, allowing me to network and enhance my career prospects as a future nurse. Being taught by the people who I will be working with upon qualifying ensures that I am following policies and procedures as well as the best evidence-based practice for nursing. Learning the softer skills such as communication and time management as well as professional conduct is also a benefit of completing an apprenticeship.

15 years ago I embarked up a nursing degree through the traditional university route, however this did not suit my style as a kinaesthetic learner. With an apprenticeship, I am able to apply what I have learnt in theory, straight into practice the very next day. As I progress through my training, I am able to adapt my role and responsibilities gradually over time, as a result my employer benefits from this as well. This continues to add to my work-based experience, and I will be guaranteed a job upon qualifying, so my training will lead directly to employment.

My active rolls as a Diversity Ambassador, Apprenticeship Champion, apprentice social impact influence and Student Voice for the School of Nursing at BPP all allow me to be an advocate for my peers and work closely with program leaders to improve learner experience. I’ve sat Education & Standards Committee and Students' Association Board of Governors to improve Apprenticeship experience as part of my ambassadorial duties at BPP University. I’m also the President & Founder of BPP Nursing Society London and council member at Association of Apprentices. As a passionate and committed individual this apprenticeship has not only given me a chance to achieve my goal of becoming a paediatric nurse at GOSH but has ignited this passion for advocacy. I am an enthusiastic learner and the apprenticeship is a great opportunity for me to learn new skills and develop further on my existing skill set and deep-rooted passion for nursing. I strive to make a positive difference in all that I apply myself to.

This apprenticeship pathway has been like a golden ticket for me. I feel invested in and valued by my employer, as a learner I feel a sense of belonging and that I am a respected member of a team. I’m grateful to have the opportunity!