Clinical Research Practitioner Apprentice Review
at NHS
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Healthcare
Worthing, West Sussex
Review Submitted: April 2022
Overall Rating
4.2 /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!
5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
3.4/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
I work within the research department at Worthing Hospital. I am involved in the clinical governance and setting up new studies to run across our trust. I liaise with other departments within the hospital as well as study sponsors. I will be shortly progressing to carry out clinical duties, such as consenting patients onto clinical trials.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I really love my programme. It gives me the space to be flexible, whilst retaining my own responsibilities. The degree course is well run, with very knowledgeable and approachable tutors. It is hard work, but if you put the hard work in, job satisfaction is huge. There is no boring day or no two days the same.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Yes, many. I have improved my communication skills, being able to contribute to team meetings and by writing professional emails. I have also gained good time-keeping skills, by planning out my day according to my workload. I have also had lots of practise using different IT systems within the Hospital.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
There were a few problems getting set-up onto the programme- some poor communication from the university, but this was soon resolved. Sometimes it is last minute until I find out what my next module is, but the content of the course and the modules themselves are very well organised. It fits in well with the job.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I am very lucky to be so supported by my employer. I have regular 1:1 meetings and can always approach them in-between these if I have an issue to discuss. They always allocate my workload paying close attention to my capacity, to not overload me. Yet, they ensure I am being challenged and pushed.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
Module conveners are very approachable and helpful. They reply to queries quickly, and provide additional revision sessions when we have exams approaching. I have regular catch-up meetings with an apprenticeship advisor who checks on my progress and offers any support I may need. Feedback provided on assignments is brilliant and detailed
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
Slightly- there is lots that does overlap, e.g human physiology (anatomy, diseases) and drug development, as well as modules which relate to clinical trials directly. Some other modules, such as applied chemistry, are not as relevant, but do help improve my general scientific understanding, which is useful for my job.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
2/5
Networking
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend NHS to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Really caring management who listen to staff and care about their welfare. Pay is fair and there are lots of career opportunities for the future. Staff are amazing and I couldnt ask for better colleagues. There is always someone to help and offer advice. Good benefits such as pension scheme etc.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to NHS?
Ensure you know the trust values and that you are right for the NHS. Make sure you are ready to work hard and prepare well for your interview. Do not be afraid to email before-hand to request an informal visit. Our motto is patient first- so always make sure you are putting the patients first!
