Seyi, a current Mental Health Nurse Apprentice, told us that she is currently working at South West London Hospital and St George's Mental Health Trust. ”I wanted to undertake the apprenticeship to become a qualified mental health nurse, so I could practice under the guidance of the NMC. Studying an apprenticeship helps me achieve this whilst balancing my family life as a mum and wife.”
We asked Seyi how her experience with the University of Greenwich has been so far and whether this has met her expectations. “I have enjoyed the past six months which have moved so quickly.” she told us. “The University of Greenwich has surpassed my expectations in the module delivery, availability of support from the lecturers, tutors and immense support amongst my peers. The lectures are easy to follow and there are days in the week we do not need to be on campus; this has given me time to study and work on my assignments.” Seyi explained.
Seyi was also asked about her placement experience so far. “The placement allocations have been excellent so far. In the past six months, I have had the opportunity to experience a variety of allocations.” she told us. Seyi also explained that this had helped her develop her skills. “This has broadened my mental health nursing skills and knowledge, which I can now take back to my base ward to enhance service delivery and patient outcomes.” She also mentioned that the theoretical side of her study has been integral to her overall learning.
We asked Seyi about her lecturers. She said that her experience with the lecturers so far has been very good, and they are very supportive. “They are knowledgeable in their various disciplines and very supportive of student development.” she explained. When asked about her peers on the apprenticeship Seyi credited her friends as the best part of her apprenticeship. “My peers have been the highlight of my apprenticeship. It has been nothing short of amazing. We study together, support each other and understand our strengths and weaknesses which allows us to best support one another.”
How has it been being a part of a team? “I have continued to receive feedback from my team about my performance and my positive attitude to work since commencing the apprenticeship.” Seyi said. She also told us that her knowledge of patient care needs has improved from her experience on the variety of placements she has attended.
We asked Seyi if she would recommend the apprenticeship. She told us that she would definitely recommend the apprenticeship due to the supportive nature of the lecturers, and peers and how far she feels her development has come.
