Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust is one of the top NHS providers of apprenticeships in the South West, with around 50 young apprentices currently working in its various departments.

To give young people an insight into what it’s like working for the NHS, the Trust welcomed around ten potential young administration apprentices for a tour on the 3rd of February 2010.

The tour took place as part of National Apprenticeship Week and all of the potential apprentices were between 16 and 19 years of age.  They were shown around both the Information Technology and Central Administration areas of the hospital, and were also given practical demonstrations and talks from Trust staff.

Apprenticeships usually last around 12 months and alongside their practical work experience apprentices study towards an NVQ in Business and Administration.  Apprentices also undergo an assessment of their underpinning knowledge and development of key skills in Maths and English. 

Emma Hopkins, 18, who is an apprentice at Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust said:  “Apprenticeships are a fantastic opportunity for young people to get some real work experience and potential employment.

“I started as an apprentice at the Trust in May last year, and my work placement is with the team at the Primrose Breast Care Centre where I work as an Appointments Clerk and Receptionist.  At the same time I’ve been studying for my NVQ in Business and Administration.

“My experience as an apprentice at Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust has been wonderful.  The team at the Primrose Centre have been excellent in really taking the time to train me and make sure I acquire the skills I need.  The apprenticeship is also very well structured so it's been easy to organise my time and fit everything in.  I’ve really enjoyed the mix of both practical and academic work. 

“I’ve had a real feeling of being invested in by the Trust and it has been such an excellent opportunity for me.  I’ve just found out that I’m going to be taken on permanently as a full-time Receptionist after I finish, so everything has worked out extremely well.”

If you are interested in finding out more about apprenticeships with Plymouth Hospitals NHS Trust please contact Mandy Johnson, NVQ/Apprenticeship Educator on 01752 437140.