News

This week, we celebrate National Apprenticeship Week 2026. We are proud to shine a spotlight on the incredible apprentices, educators and teams who make our apprenticeship programmes such a success. Throughout the week, we will be sharing stories, celebrating achievements and highlighting the vital role apprenticeships play in developing our future workforce.

Paul Blackmore, Apprenticeship Lead, said: "It's been another great year for the 'growing our own' apprenticeship offer within DPT, providing development opportunities and career pathways for employees. Our programmes now provide a regular pipeline into the multi-professional workforce in DPT.

"We currently have over 175 apprentices undertaking 25 different apprenticeships across both clinical and non-clinical areas throughout our many and varied teams. We have come a long way from the early days of apprenticeships, when we had just a handful of apprentices completing three apprenticeships.

"It's great to see this development over the years, thanks to the Trust's continued support and investment in apprenticeships as a key organisation workstream. We have even supported some staff through three apprenticeship programmes - from Level 3 Senior Support Worker to Nursing Associate and now finishing as Registered Nurses. A great achievement!

"I want to say a massive thank-you to the team for their dedication to supporting our apprentices on their journeys to success."

How we support neurodiversity

In recent years, we have discovered that several of our student nursing associate (SNA) apprentice nurses are neurodiverse. We work closely with them and with our academic partners to ensure they receive the right support. Each apprentice has individual needs, so our approach is fully integrated, with regular reviews to ensure the best possible outcomes.

Elizabeth Bearne, Registered Nursing Associate/Student Nurse, said: "The education team created an incredibly supportive environment, giving me the tools and understanding I needed to excel in my education as a student with ADHD."

Natasha Babb, Registered Nursing Associate, shared: "Throughout my apprenticeship journey, Sarah has supported me every step of the way. She has helped me gain confidence in myself and my abilities, always offering guidance, reassurance and understanding when I needed it most. We have truly been on a journey together, and I honestly don't think I could have completed my apprenticeship without her support. Knowing she was there made such a difference, and I'm incredibly grateful for everything she has done to help me succeed."

The Apprenticeship Team is always happy to speak with individuals about apprenticeship opportunities. Email dpt.apprenticeships@nhs.net