Heartbeat: From HCA to nursing associate – the sky’s the limit for Jenni Meeson
April 20, 2020
Within our organisation, there is a strong focus on personal development. With opportunities available to all colleagues, it’s something we’re passionate about. Whether you choose an apprenticeship, external learning or a degree level qualification, there’s something for everyone.
Jenni Meeson has taken advantage of the learning opportunities available at our Trust. Having worked here for 15 years, for the most part, she’s worked as a health care assistant (HCA). That all changed when she decided to take the next step in her career and become a nurse associate apprentice.
She joined the programme almost two years ago and, it has been an invaluable learning experience for Jenni.
The apprenticeship covers all four domains of nursing – adult, children’s, learning disabilities, plus mental health. Jenni has found this hugely informative and, it’s been enhanced by the clinical work placements she’s completed and, offsite learning at the University of Wolverhampton.
Speaking to Heartbeat Jenni explained, “I worked as a HCA in the community for 15 years. Over that time I worked with a lot of different teams and developed transferable skills. That in part, helped me decide to become a nurse associate apprentice. It has given me the chance to build on what I already know and I can now do things I couldn’t do before such as compressions and drug rounds.”
With just five months left of her apprenticeship, Jenni took a moment to reflect on her learning experience. “I complete 30 hours each week for my work placement and a day at university. I’ve had to do assignments, exams and presentations as part of my apprenticeship. Ultimately when I qualify I will gain a foundation degree as a nursing associate. It will be a proud moment.”
She added, “I would encourage anyone interested in becoming a nurse associate to apply. Once you’ve qualified that’s just the beginning of your journey – it’s up to you where you progress to. I feel particularly grateful that the Trust has invested in this apprenticeship. I’m also pleased that when I qualify it will enable me to be a registered practitioner governed by the Nursing and Midwifery Council.”