Trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioner Review

I work as part of a team on a haematology unit, it involves reviewing, assessing and making clinical decisions on patients with a variety of haematological conditions both malignant and non malignant.

I have learnt so much already and am not half way through the apprenticeship. The skills I have learnt have been a mixture of practical skills such as clinical examination along with more academic skills.

I enjoy the programme but it is challenging. Combining work and study is not easy and requires commitment.

The programme is very well structured with a wide range of resources available. The tutors are approachable, the clinical skills coach is supportive and the extended teaching team including library staff are invaluble.

I am fortunate to be extremely supported by the whole department. They invest a great deal of time to teaching and guiding me. The role is a new one in the department and already they are seeking a further addition.

There is a great deal of support. Studying through a pandemic has brought many challenges but the teaching has been well organised, easy to access and the updates and contact from tutors is frequent.

Once complete the benefit to both the patient and the organisation will be significant. The qualification has formally built on existing knowledge and experience but has advanced it with solid academic input.

The NHS has a strong ethic of education and training , there has recently been a focus on health and wellbeing as a consequence of the pandemic. There are wide discounts available to NHS workers to access leisure activities. However, they do not directly organise and social or extra curricular events.

Yes

The teaching and support so far has been a positive experience. There is much on offer outside of the course if you have the time to get involved.

Go for it! You will only regret it if you don't. You are never old or too busy to broaden your horizons.