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Ahead of National Apprenticeship Week (9 - 15 February), we spoke with Philip Batten, Community Learning Disability Nurse, who completed the Nurse Degree Apprenticeship in September 2025.

Why did you choose the Nurse Degree Apprenticeship route?

I chose the Nurse Degree Apprenticeship to access a supported pathway into becoming a registered nurse, while remaining in employment. This route allowed me to learn in real clinical environments, gain hands-on skills from day one, and progress my nursing career without stepping away from income or family responsibilities. The apprenticeship provided an opportunity to grow within the Trust, supported by mentors and colleagues who understood my learning needs and my long-term ambition to become a learning disability nurse.

What attracted you to this programme compared to traditional pathways?

Compared to a traditional university programme, the apprenticeship enabled practical, workplace-based application of knowledge. I was able to immediately embed skills into practice, build confidence across services in real time, and develop my professional identity while contributing to patient care. The model also gave flexibility and financial accessibility, removing barriers that would have otherwise prevented me from pursuing a nursing degree.

What is one highlight that stands out to you?

One of the most rewarding moments of my journey has been leading a complex Continuing Healthcare transition for an individual with autism and learning disabilities. I coordinated MDT input, navigated mental capacity considerations, completed CHC assessments, and used communication-focused tools such as a social story to support the individual and family. Seeing the positive impact on their quality of life reaffirmed my passion for learning disability nursing.

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

Balancing full-time clinical work, academic deadlines and personal commitments was one of the most significant challenges, particularly while managing chronic back pain and dyslexia. Alongside this, there was also the professional challenge of being perceived as already fully qualified because of the responsibility and leadership I demonstrated in practice. At times, colleagues, external professionals and families assumed I already held RN status, which made it challenging to protect space for my learning needs, supervision and academic requirements.

To overcome this, I learned to confidently and professionally clarify my role as an apprentice and to advocate for protected learning time. I worked to navigate expectations by being transparent about my training stage while still demonstrating capability and commitment. Workplace adjustments, digital tools such as dictation software and an iPad to support accessible note-taking, and structured time-blocking helped me manage competing pressures. Most importantly, I developed the confidence to ask for help early, lean on my supervisor and team for support, and communicate honestly about what I needed to succeed. This experience strengthened not only my resilience but also my professional identity as a learner and emerging registered nurse.

What is your current role and responsibilities post-completion?

I am now working as a registered learning disability nurse (RNLD) within the Specialist Health Community Learning Disability Team. I independently lead continuing healthcare (CHC) health needs assessments, coordinate multi-disciplinary team (MDT) discussions, complete health reviews and contribute to the formulation of clinical risk to support safe, person-centred decision-making. My role requires regular liaison with the Integrated Care Board (ICB), social care and external providers, ensuring that health needs are clearly articulated and that individuals receive the right support at the right time.

I support individuals and families through complex transitions and often act as the lead nurse for cases involving behaviour that challenges, unregulated care arrangements, or delegated healthcare tasks. I have grown significantly in confidence and professional identity, now embracing new challenges and using my clinical judgement with increasing autonomy. I recognise my capability, resilience, and readiness to take full accountability for nursing decisions, contribute to safeguarding where required, and support system-wide development within the CHC pathway.

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

Plan and organise your Open University workload alongside your day-to-day clinical role from the very beginning. Create a structure that protects time for study and assignments, and do not be afraid to ask for help or support when you need it - whether from supervisors, colleagues or your academic tutor. You are not expected to take this journey alone; reaching out early makes the experience more manageable and increases your chances of success.

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

Balancing an apprenticeship, clinical practice and personal commitments will require intention and planning, but it is completely achievable with the right approach. Treat your Open University work like part of your role - plan ahead, use a diary or digital planner and break assignments into smaller tasks so they feel manageable across the week. Protect your personal time and give yourself permission to rest, because burnout helps no one. Be open and honest with colleagues and mentors about what you need; having conversations early will make your journey smoother. Most importantly, remember that asking for help is a professional skill - whether that is from tutors, practice assessors, family or your clinical team.

Why would you recommend this route to others?

I would recommend the Nurse Degree Apprenticeship route because it allows you to grow into your nursing role while gaining real-world experience and remaining part of the workforce. You learn by doing - applying theory immediately into practice - which builds confidence in your decision-making and shapes a strong professional identity. It also removes financial barriers by enabling you to earn while you learn, making nursing a realistic and inclusive career option for people who may not be able to take years away from employment. This route provides a clear pathway to progression, supported by supervisors, practice assessors, and a network of colleagues who understand your learning journey. It is challenging, but the growth you experience both personally and professionally makes it deeply rewarding - and you finish not only as a qualified nurse, but as a resilient, confident practitioner ready to make an impact.

Do you have a short inspirational quote about your journey?

"I chose this journey to change lives. Along the way, it changed mine."