Want to become a nurse but think going to university is the only route? Samantha’s story will open your eyes!

Meet Samantha Thompson – she’s a Nursing Associate Apprentice working in the Stroke Rehabilitation team at Hollybank House in Willenhall. Sam is completing a Level 5 foundation degree course and, once qualified, she will be supporting nurses to provide direct patient care.

After hearing many people say that the only way to become a nurse is to go to university, Sam decided to do her research and found the Nursing Apprenticeship Scheme.

“It was not financially viable for me to take the university route. The scheme was a way for me to work towards a degree and to earn money to support my family,” she commented.

So far, she has learned about how to be resilient – whilst working during a pandemic – and the importance of adaptability and finding new ways of learning.

When asked if this apprenticeship has made a difference to her career, she replied: “It has allowed me to work in all areas of nursing. Prior to starting this course, my only healthcare experience was volunteering with the Maternity and Infant Feeding teams, but now I have lots of experience.”

Once her course is complete, Sam would like to top-up her qualification to the full nursing degree – requiring a further 18 months of study. With a lot of hard work, commitment and determination, she hopes to complete this in maternity, paediatrics, or health visiting.

Thank you for sharing your success story Sam and good luck!