Introducing Jamie, an Occupational Therapist Apprentice at Alder Hey Children’s NHS Foundation Trust
How did you find out about this apprenticeship opportunity?
The Occupational Therapist Apprenticeship was advertised as a job alongside the apprenticeship. I had already expressed my interest within my department in becoming a qualified therapist as and when an opportunity arrived. I was advised by my senior leaders that an opportunity was being advertised and for me to consider applying.
How has doing your apprenticeship supported your career pathway?
I originally contacted the apprenticeship team roughly 2 years ago, to find out how to become a qualified therapist. With my current level 3 qualifications at the time not being relevant I had to retrain, this began by doing a Level 3 Senior Healthcare Support Worker Apprenticeship, which I completed in June 2025. I began my Occupational Therapist Degree Apprenticeship in September 2025, which is a 3-year course. My goal was, and still is, to become a qualified therapist, and with support of the apprenticeship team and the therapies department I am getting closer to achieving this goal.
What has been the most challenging part?
The work, study and life balance, doing an apprenticeship degree whilst holding a full-time job and being a father, has been the biggest challenge so far but learning to prioritise, plan ahead and to not procrastinate has helped.
What has been the most rewarding part?
Passing my anatomy and physiology exam, this was the bulk of our studying from September to December. It was a 2-hour exam and personally I have not been in an exam condition since high school (which feels and was a lifetime ago).
Do you have any tips for future apprentices?
DO IT! Go for it, the Trust is amazing at investing in its staff. If you are thinking of upskilling or re-training in a different field, speak to the apprenticeship team, discuss it in your PDRs and take any chance given.
In regard to doing an apprenticeship, ensuring you can put time aside to complete your studies is important as most of the work will be done in your own time, and if you put time aside, stick to it.