Learning and Development Facilitator Review
at NHS
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Healthcare
Gateshead
Review Submitted: August 2021
Overall Rating
4 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
3.5/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
4/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
As a key member of the Workforce function, I am responsible, for the design and delivery of learning and development programmes across the Trust. Primarily this is vocational learning programmes aimed at maximising the skills of our current workforce and supporting new entrants in to the workforce. I am also responsible for ensuring the supporting infrastructure is effective to meet all internal and external standards, as well as ensuring a high quality customer service is provided to learners
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
I am starting to understand the requirements of this apprenticeship and pleased with the feedback I have received which has highlighted so areas of development to enhance the content to demonstrate my knowledge and understanding.
I felt a little unsettled having a change of Assessor quite early on into the course, however I now have some clear targets to work to and I feel confident that I will receive the support required to meet these targets from both my Assessor and manager at work.
I felt a little unsettled having a change of Assessor quite early on into the course, however I now have some clear targets to work to and I feel confident that I will receive the support required to meet these targets from both my Assessor and manager at work.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
The main area of where I feel I have developed in terms of knowledge relates to understanding the business needs better. I feel that by completing my first piece of work and also having the opportunity to meet with our Executive Director of People and Organisation Development I have gained a better understanding of the importance of the working with the various stakeholders and how the influence the business needs of the organisation. I also feel that as Learning and Development Facilitator we play a pivotal role is shaping the learning culture within the organisation and how it is important that the L&D team work closely with the business units as well as our HRBPs to develop a meaningful strategic workforce and training plan.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
The course did not get off to the best start as I very quickly had a change of Assessor, however I now feel more confident in what is expected of me and that there is a clear plan and structure now in place for the delivery of the course. After each session with my Assessor targets are set for the next session
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I am fully supported by my line manager and have frequent one to one sessions with her. My manager includes me in anything she feels would assist me in my course and career development and participates inb my review meeting with the Assessor. I am aware that I can seek support and guidance from my manager as and when needed.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
It is very early on in my course, and so far I have already had a change of assessor, which does not bode well for consistency. However I now feel that I am receiving the appropriate support and feel confident in the feedback I am receiving which will support me in reaching my ultimate goal.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
This qualification, so far, has helped me gain a better understanding of the importance of the working with the various stakeholders and how the influence the business needs of the organisation. I also feel that as Learning and Development Facilitator we play a pivotal role is shaping the learning culture within the organisation and how it is important that the L&D team work closely with the business units as well as our HRBPs to develop a meaningful strategic workforce and training plan.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Within the Trust we have various staff networks which we are encouraged to join from LGBT, Disability to BAME networks. The Trust has invested heavily in staff health and well-being which is vitally important currently for those working in the healthcare sector given the current COVID-19 pandemic and the pressures this has placed on staff.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend NHS to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust is a very friendly and supportive organisation to work for. The provide opportunities for staff to undertake CPD and are constantly looking at ways to improve working practices. They have very good channels of communication and this is reflected in the positive feedback they receive in the annual staff surveys.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to NHS?
Keep looking for your ideal job on www.nhs.jobs. Make sure you read the job description and personal specification and reflect how you meet the criteria within your job application. Take time to research the organisation (Mission, Vision and values statements) and also come for an informal visit to make sure this is the right environment for you.
