Introducing Jake, a Physiotherapist Apprentice at Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
How did you find out about this apprenticeship opportunity?
I first found out about the physiotherapy apprenticeship through my own research while exploring different pathways to becoming a qualified physiotherapist. Following this, I met with Justine Palmer from the Apprenticeship Team to discuss how I could access the apprenticeship, and she clearly explained the options available to me.
I also spoke to previous physiotherapy apprentices within the therapies department, who provided valuable insight and feedback about the role. Because I had shown a strong interest in the apprenticeship route, my colleagues kindly informed me as soon as an upcoming physiotherapy apprenticeship opportunity became available.
How has doing your apprenticeship supported your career pathway?
Completing my apprenticeship has been instrumental in supporting my career pathway. I have been interested in pursuing a career in physiotherapy since completing my first degree; however, the prospect of undertaking a second degree presented significant challenges. These included the difficulty of attending university while maintaining full-time employment and any financial implications.
However, the degree apprenticeship opportunity at Alder Hey provided an ideal solution to the above, enabling me to work full time while studying alongside my role, with comprehensive support from the organisation and fess covered by the apprenticeship levy. This has allowed me to develop both academically and professionally without compromising my employment. As a result, I am now able to maintain a healthy work–life balance while actively pursuing a career that I am passionate about.
What has been the most challenging part?
With the level of support, I receive from my team in the therapies department, the University of Salford, and my apprenticeship mentor, it is honestly difficult to identify any major challenges.
The team gives me plenty of opportunities to apply what I learn at university into clinical practice, the University of Salford provides excellent teaching and support for all degree apprentices, and my mentor and I meet monthly to catch up and discuss anything related to work or university.
Overall, the support has been brilliant.
What has been the most rewarding part?
The most rewarding part for me has been seeing how much I have progressed and learned in such a short period of time. As mentioned previously, my team is incredibly supportive in helping me practise what I learn and apply it within clinical practice.
Because of this, I can clearly see how much my confidence has grown when assessing patients and supporting them with their care, which has been very rewarding.
Do you have any tips for future apprentices?
If you have an interest in a particular area, or you’re looking to progress your career, my biggest tip would be to ask questions! Speak to different colleagues, talk to managers, and ask what options and opportunities are available to support your career progression.
I would also strongly recommend speaking to the Apprenticeship Team here at Alder Hey. I spoke to Justine last December about the possibility of joining the physiotherapy apprenticeship. Justine explained the options available to me, and now here I am as a physiotherapy apprentice, enjoying every minute of it.