News

Following on from our recent interview with Philip Batten [insert link to PB piece], we spoke with Grace Parker, Registered Mental Health Nurse, who completed the Student Nursing Associate (SNA) programme and Registered Degree Nurse Apprenticeship top up.

Why did you choose the Nurse Degree Apprenticeship route?

I chose the Nurse Degree Apprenticeship route because becoming a mental health nurse has always been my long-term career goal. Starting my career as a healthcare assistant gave me valuable insight into the realities of mental health care, and it confirmed that this is the field where I feel most driven and fulfilled.

When the opportunity to become a SNA arose, it felt like the natural next step. The SNA role has allowed me to build my confidence, develop my clinical skills, and work closely with patients and multidisciplinary teams. It also gave me a deeper understanding of the responsibilities and challenges of nursing, which strengthened my commitment to progressing further. I then choose to complete the RDNA top up degree.

By doing the top up through an apprenticeship it meant I could continue developing in an environment where I've had already built strong foundations and stay within a supportive team. Learning on the job offered me an opportunity to gain invaluable additional hands-on clinical experience alongside academic study alongside the chance to earn.

What attracted you to this programme compared to traditional pathways?

I was attracted to the Nurse Degree Apprenticeship programme because it offers a practical, supportive and accessible route into nursing compared to traditional pathways.

Another major factor was that I was already working within the Trust. Choosing the apprenticeship route meant I could stay at Langdon, where I felt part of a strong, supportive team who have encouraged my development from the start. Remaining in a familiar environment where I feel valued and understood has given me the confidence to take this next step towards becoming a mental health nurse.

Another major factor was that the apprenticeship offered me the ability to earn and not have any student debt, therefore removing the financial barriers associated with full-time university study.

What is one highlight that stands out to you?

For me a massive highlight for me was the placements that I was able to go to whilst on the TNA apprenticeship and the RDNA apprenticeship. I have been lucky enough to go to a range of amazing placements. A particular highlight for me was my RDNA placements as I was able to have 10-12 weeks in 2 other places and also have 12 weeks in my base as a student. I learnt so much during that time - about assessment, communication and working within fast-paced, multidisciplinary environments. This experience strengthened my ambition to advance clinically and confirmed that nursing is the right path for me.

What challenges have you faced and how did you overcome it?

With life, there are always ups and downs, and one of the biggest challenges I've faced has been navigating personal responsibilities alongside full-time work and study. Balancing shifts, academic deadlines and my own wellbeing wasn't always easy, and at times it felt overwhelming.

What helped me overcome this was learning to manage my time more effectively and being honest about when I needed support. I reached out to colleagues, mentors, and my team at Langdon, who were always willing to guide me, reassure me, and help me stay on track. I also made a conscious effort to prioritise self-care - taking time to rest, reflect and maintain a healthy routine so I could continue performing well both in practice and academically.

What is your current role and responsibilities post-completion?

In my current role as a registered mental health nurse at Langdon, my responsibilities focus on delivering safe, compassionate and person-centred care to the patients I support every day. This includes completing mental health assessments, developing and reviewing care plans, administering medication, managing risk and working closely with the multidisciplinary team to ensure each patient receives the right level of support.

A key part of my role is building therapeutic relationships. I support people day to day by listening, offering reassurance, encouraging independence and helping them develop coping strategies. I aim to bring a little bit of happiness into each person's day - whether through a small conversation, a moment of humour or simply being present and showing kindness. Mental health care can be challenging, so I feel it's important to create a calm, positive environment wherever possible.

I also see it as part of my responsibility to support my colleagues. If I can make their day a little easier - whether by offering help, sharing workload or maintaining good communication - I know it contributes to better teamwork and ultimately better patient care.

Being a registered mental health nurse at Langdon allows me to combine clinical responsibilities with genuine compassion, and I am committed to contributing to a supportive, safe and uplifting environment for both patients and staff.

What is one piece of advice that you would give to someone?

Stay curious, never hesitate to ask questions!!

What are your tips for balancing work, study and personal life?

Set your boundaries and plan your time! Make sure you have set time for work, study and home life. It's so important to make sure you take time for yourself! Also reach out to your colleagues who have done the courses or are also doing the apprenticeship - its a great way to seek guidance and share knowledge when needed!

Why would you recommend this route to others?

The experience and knowledge you gain from doing an apprenticeship is incredible - it gives you an opportunity to apply your learning every shift! And its an added bonus you can have a full wage and have no student debt!