Creating brighter futures – Rebecca’s a step closer to her dream of becoming a nurse
The health and life sector accounts for 15% of employment in the UK, with around 80,000 people employed in various roles in the West of England alone.
Despite this, skills shortages and vacancy rates are higher than ever.
We’re tackling these challenges head on by providing learners with the knowledge and expertise needed to succeed in the industry – as apprentice Rebecca Twinney demonstrates.
Rebecca is a senior healthcare assistant at the Royal United Hospital, Bath, and her incredible work ethic saw her named Sport, Health, Lab Tech and Social Care Apprentice of the Year at the Weston College Business Awards 2019.
Rebecca said: “To be recognised for all of the hard work and commitment which I had put into the qualification was overwhelming. The award will serve as a reminder to me of just what is possible when I put my mind to it and has given me the motivation to continue striving for excellence within my profession.
“I genuinely feel that being given the award is no more my achievement than it is of my College assessor, Bekki Ackerman, as it never would have been possible without her unwavering support for every single minute of my qualification.”
Since this achievement, Rebecca has progressed onto a Trainee Nursing Associate programme with the Royal United Hospital in Bath.
We work in partnership with the Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust to provide apprenticeship routes into a variety of areas. These are an excellent opportunity to earn, gain work experience and achieve nationally recognised qualifications at the same time.
Rebecca continued: “In terms of my personal career goals, it was essential to obtain this qualification and continue along my planned career progression route. I am just so grateful to all at Weston College for helping me achieve the promotion I was aiming for and get a place on my next training course so that I can continue towards becoming a qualified nurse in the future.
“I am so pleased to be well on my way towards my career ambitions and it is with my sincerest thanks to all of the staff at Weston College for making this possible and helping me to realise my dreams.”
Congratulations to Rebecca on her outstanding achievements!
New state-of-the-art resources on the horizon
From September our learners will benefit from the bespoke resources and facilities available at the new state-of-the-art Health and Active Living Skills Centre.
This centre will be a fantastic hub for health and social care apprentices. They will gain technical experience by using the new facilities, such as the Nursing Anne simulators, to enable them to become competent and confident practitioners.
Learners will also benefit from the centre’s digital infrastructure, allowing them to network with one another and prospective employers from a variety of large NHS trusts.
The centre will also encourage students to lead a balanced lifestyle, as staff will promote students’ physical and mental health, and well-being by encouraging them to use the new sporting facilities that the centre also boasts.
Click here to find out more about our new facility as well as apprenticeships and courses in Health and Social Care.