Neonatal Sister Review

I work as a Band 7 Neonatal Sister. I manage a small team and carry out clinical duties. I work as a shift coordinator, team Leader and perform administrative work. I work closely with staff, to mentor and offer clinical support. I am also the Family Integrated Care Lead and support patients and their families and ensuring that services offered and delivered are according to expected standards and guidelines/protocols.

Each day on the job is different and through my apprenticeship, I am learning new skills that are suitable for my role. I have developed and improved existing skills i.e. decision-making skills, conflict resolution skills and managerial experience.

I love meeting new people and learning about their work. I have learned a lot from my classmates in what they do and their insights and opinions about work and ideas are valuable and mind-opening.

Very well structured. Every part of the programme is available for viewing. It helps us prepare on what to expect next and resources and support is made widely available. The interactive class sessions encourages critical reflection and analysis.

There has been staffing issues that are quite challenging to handle. I have had to ensure that a percentage of my working hours is incorporated and acknowledged, whilst I am on the apprenticeship to create a healthy work-life balance between my paid job, learning and personal life.

I have already had a joint meeting with my skills coach and manager. I did not manage to book a 1:1 session with my previous tutor due to conflicting work schedules. There are plenty of resources online, such as courses to help improve critical analysis/reflection and writing and support at work ensure that working towards gaining these qualifications is highly achievable.

The theoretical side of my education and training within the programme helps to link theory into my current practice. The qualifications I am hoping to achieve ensures that I have a better understanding of myself, my leadership style and attributes to perform better in my current role and that I contribute back to my local unit and Trust by sharing this knowledge and evidence.

There are plenty to choose from. I have yet to enjoy being part of the social activities and other events - just waiting to find the time to incorporate them into my schedule.

Yes

The national health service is the best company to work as it offers critical skills and knowledge, has a good pension scheme and you learn a lot working with the best healthcare professionals.

Research the job role you envision yourself to be doing, where your passion belongs to. There is a role for everyone out there and great opportunity to work between different career goals.