He has shared his story as part of National Apprenticeship Week 2025.
“When I first started working as a support worker over eight years ago, it was my first exposure to working in a care/mental health setting.
I was inspired by working with various nurses across different wards so I began to enquire about nursing pathways.
I was at an age where I needed to earn an income so it wasn’t possible to quit my full-time job but the opportunity arose for me to apply for what was at the time, the Nursing Associate Pathway.
This enabled me to continue working for Cygnet, alongside completing the Apprenticeship.
The support provided by Cygnet and the university was invaluable as it enabled me to continue learning on the job as well as attending university.
Completing the Nursing Associate Pathway enabled me to practice some of the fundamental nursing skills.
This enabled the transition of becoming a registered nurse to be more streamlined. I was further supported through the Cygnet Nursing Preceptorship.
Overall, the pathway was challenging and demanded commitment and passion for nursing and learning but, was very rewarding.
I gained valuable experience working here at Cygnet Hospital Kewstoke and at my many placements.
I now really enjoy my role as a registered Mental Health Nurse and feel that my confidence and competence is underpinned by my experience and training throughout.’’
