Two
of the Trust’s apprentices have been awarded in RNN Group’s annual
Apprenticeship of the Year Awards.
Bev Belcher and Amanda Shaw received the
accolades after the virtual announcement of the awards made during National
Apprenticeship Week in February. Amanda won the Higher Apprentice of the Year
Award, while Bev was Highly Commended in the Advanced Apprentice of the Year
Award.
Announcing
the awards in a special YouTube video, Lisa Wilson, Apprenticeship Director for
RNN Group, said Amanda had shown “real academic excellence and determination”
and said her college tutor described her as a pleasure to work with. Speaking
of Bev, Lisa said: “The Advanced Apprentice of the Year is always a challenging
one to judge. This year the standard has been excellent and it was tough for
our judging panel to decide. In this category we have a highly commended
individual who has really shone over the last 12 months.”
Amanda,
an Assistant Practitioner, said: “I’m thrilled and
overwhelmed to have been nominated and then go on to win this award is
amazing.
“It’s been a challenging
couple of years, but to have actually completed and finished the degree was so
satisfying. I work with an amazing team in caring for children and young
people in the community, my work is so rewarding and I truly love my job.
“I have gained a better
understanding of the laws and legislation involved in social care and apply
these within my job role. I have met some amazing people on my journey who have
enhanced my experience. The support of my family, tutors, manager and mentor
have kept me going till the end.
“Thank you to everyone
who has helped and supported me in my journey. I’m looking forward to
seeing what the future holds in my career in the NHS.”
Bev, a Health Care Support Worker,
said she was gobsmacked when she received the call, but very proud. She added:
“My mum was a nurse and I hope I’ve made her proud. You can only complete
these courses with the support of your family and work colleagues, especially
in recent times.”
She
said the last twelve months had not been easy. “What a time to decide to do
more training! But with support and encouragement of my colleagues I have
persevered.
“As
a hospital, we have cared for many patients, many have gone home, but,
unfortunately others haven’t, which as staff hits hard. But as a team, we
will get through this. This course has helped improve my knowledge, and I
am now able to help others to learn in the future. I am proud to work for the
NHS.”
Graham Travis,
Apprenticeship Manager at the Trust, said: “It was really great to see Amanda
and Bev receive this recognition from RNN and as part of National
Apprenticeship Week. They’ve both performed at the highest level throughout
their apprenticeships and I would like to say congratulations.”