I have been working for the NHS, mostly within the Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (BCHC), for nearly 15 years. Having left school without any real clear direction I started my journey in 2005 as a Healthcare Assistant on one of the in-bed units at BCHC, where I was offered a full time post working in Moseley Hall Hospital. Since then I have gone from strength to strength working in different NHS Trusts around Birmingham and now I’m working as a Advanced Nurse Practitioner back at BCHC. Working for the NHS and BCHC in particular has been very rewarding and has offered many opportunities.
This is my story so far...
Health Care Assistant
I began my journey in the NHS as a Healthcare Apprentice working towards an NVQ 2, whilst working as a Health Care Assistant in the in-bedded unit.
Senior Health Care Assistant
In my next role I worked as a Senior Health Care Assistant in BCHC. During this time I had the opportunity to gain my NVQ 3 qualification.
BSc Nursing Studies | Level 6
At this point I decided to take a break from my career and enroll onto a Nursing Degree Programme.
Registered Nurse
Having attained my Degree in Nursing I secured a job as a Registered Nurse (Adult) in BCHC.
Senior Registered Nurse
I was then appointed to a Senior Registered Nurse (Adult) post within the Cardiac Care Unit at Good Hope Hospital.
Masters Degree (Clinical) | Level 7
During my time as a Senior Registered Nurse (Adult) I was given an opportunity to enrol onto a part-time Clinical Masters Degree which I completed as I worked.
Advanced Nurse Practitioner
Having gained my Clinical Masters I applied for and secured a job as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner (Adult) back at BCHC.
What does the future hold?
I am now working in a Band 8a Role and my future aspirations are to become a Director of Nursing. In the more immediate future, I am focussing on gaining experience, skills and training in strategic management, and continuing my progression through the many available options in Birmingham Community Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and the wider NHS. Working in the NHS has provided me with the chance to continuously reflect on my experiences and further my personal development, through funded learning opportunities.