My name is Menuka Basnet, and I am so happy to share my experience as a Graduate Nursing Apprentice of NUH.
My nursing apprenticeships have offered me a combination of theoretical classroom learning opportunities and hands-on, on-the-job experience in a healthcare setting. This allows apprentices to apply the knowledge right away under the supervision of experienced nurses resulting in a well-rounded skill set that includes clinical skills, knowledge and competencies, communication, problem-solving, patient care, and critical thinking abilities while earning a wage and gaining valuable experience within a real working environment.
I was lucky enough to be able to work in the NUH for a long time in various roles and departments, which gave me full skills, knowledge and plenty of experience and confidence to apply for the job.
Also, being a mum of two young children, the Associate Degree in Nursing to a Registered Nurse route was the best option for me as it could provide me with full financial support and avoid student debt.
On the one hand, the best part of the nursing apprentice was I was still an employee of the NUH, which enabled me to continue the length of service with NUH without a break.
On the other hand, I was released fully to go to university for theoretical knowledge like the other students. I cannot thank enough the recruitment team of the NUH for providing me with this amazing opportunity and fulfilling my dream to be a nurse and do the job I was born for.
The most interesting part of the whole program was the ‘Clinical Supervision’ from the trust, which involved meeting and discussing (with the group of apprentices of the cohort) the clinical skills that we learned or struggled to learn, as well as the problems that we were experiencing on the placement. This was the best part of the program for me, because we could openly share our feelings, develop confidence in clinical skills and experiences and learn from each other.
I would highly recommend this to everyone if you are eager to be a nurse, and if you are willing to deliver the best and outstanding care possible within Team NUH, then go for it!
You will love it! It is the best opportunity for everyone EVER
