Nursing Associate Review

Item: Nursing Associate at Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust
Rating: 5
Author: Anonymous

at Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust

Level 4/5 Apprenticeship

Healthcare

London Rd, Reading RG1 5AN, UK

Review Submitted: April 2026

Overall Rating

5 /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

5/5 - 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

As a Nursing Associate working in paediatrics, I support registered nurses in delivering safe, compassionate care to children. I carry out a range of duties, including monitoring vital signs, assisting with clinical procedures, and helping children with their daily needs such as feeding, hygiene, and comfort. I adapt how I communicate depending on the child’s age and development, making sure they feel reassured and understood, while also involving their parents or carers in their care. I stay alert to any changes in a child’s condition and report concerns promptly, as children can deteriorate quickly. I also contribute to safeguarding by recognising and reporting any signs of harm or neglect.

To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

5/5

I liked having the opportunity to learn while working alongside experienced professionals, developing both my confidence and clinical skills in a real healthcare environment. I enjoyed attending placements' and learning about other departments and trusts.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

5/5

I feel like I’ve grown a lot both personally and professionally. I’ve become much more confident in communicating, especially learning how to speak to children in a way that makes them feel comfortable while also supporting their parents or carers. I’ve developed practical clinical skills like taking observations and helping with procedures, but also learned how important it is to notice small changes in a child’s condition. Working closely with the team in the NHS has really improved my teamwork and helped me understand how everyone plays a part in a child’s care. I’ve also got better at managing my time, staying organised, and speaking up if I have concerns, which has made me feel more confident in my role overall.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?

5/5

I was extremely well supported through my trust, as there is a dedicated team who help and assist with anything each cohort might need.
My ward manager and colleagues still support my learning and development, even now I am qualified. My ward also has practice development nurses who help ensure I have attended all appropriate training for my role.

How much support do you receive from your employer?

5/5

My employer support was/is excellent. I know I can go to my manager about anything, either regarding my role or with regard to myself and she will support me, no matter what.

How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

5/5

Lots of contact and regular meetings were had, this allowed the opportunity to identify any areas of support. These meetings were held between Uni, my trust apprentice support team and myself.

How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

5/5

I could not continue this role without my training. It will hopefully enable me to further my career in the near future.

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

We have Christmas parties & New years parties. Staff attend each others wedding ect.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust to a friend?

Yes

Why?

I have recommended this training to a close friend, she did initially go through the process and was excited however did not start due to unforeseen circumstances lading to her moving out of the area. I would recommend it again in the future.