As part of National Apprenticeship Week, we are spotlighting CityCare apprentices and their experiences.

Michaela Lea – Nursing Apprenticeship journey

Michaela started as a Rehabilitation Support Worker in the Community Stroke team at CityCare in 2019, later becoming an Assistant Practitioner.

Although she enjoyed her work, she wanted to progress through the Nurse degree apprenticeship.

Diagnosed with dyslexia at nine, Michaela had a challenging school experience, acquiring functional skills in maths and English and NVQs through her job.

After meeting the university's student support team, Michaela learned she has ADHD (attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder), rather than dyslexia, leading to the creation of a tailored support plan. This includes printed presentations, one-on-one tutorials, and additional time for assignments.

With determination and the backing of the university and our Professional Standards team, particularly Learning and Education Development Nurse Becki Flegg,, Michaela is achieving impressive results, including one assignment score of 100%.

What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?

This apprenticeship has been the toughest challenge I've faced, and I sometimes feel guilty for putting my life on hold, especially as a parent.

I believe, however, my children will be proud of what I accomplish. It's essential to be ready to put in the effort, but the rewards are significant. I keep my focus on the opportunity ahead and the fact that I will graduate debt-free, which wouldn't have been possible without full funding for the course.

What are you looking forward to once you have completed your Nursing apprenticeship?

I’m entering my final year and I’m excited about qualifying and getting back to a normal routine. After I finish, I really want to work in the community because I can’t imagine being anywhere else. CityCare is fantastic, and I can’t see myself moving anywhere else.

Amanda Langton – HR Support Apprenticeship

Would you recommend an apprenticeship at CityCare?

I would highly recommend completing an apprenticeship with CityCare if you get the opportunity.

I am very grateful I have been able to gain my CIPD level 3 qualification with the support of CityCare as this has always been my career goal.

I was given the allocated time to concentrate on achieving this by my line manager, who also supported me during the 18-month apprenticeship. Due to my own experience, I have signed up to start my CIPD level 5 this month (February 2025. Without the continued support of CityCare, this would not be possible.

My ultimate goal is to develop my HR career. With CityCare offering apprenticeships I hope to be able to achieve this and continue to grow.

Manager feedback - Liza Place, Head of Recruitment and Transactional Services

Having supported Amanda through her apprenticeship, I would recommend this to anyone who wants to apply. The process itself is straight forward, the college has been really supportive and Amanda has been able to take the time away from work to concentrate on her course, gaining lots of experience and being supported along the way.

Feedback – Emma Cross, Apprenticeship and Career Engagement Manager

CityCare is excited to support Amanda as she progresses from her successful level 3 apprenticeship to the next stage and higher level of apprenticeship. We look forward to helping her achieve her goals and sharing her new-found skills and knowledge to enhance our services at CityCare.

Anyone interested in an apprentcieship can find  out more on the Health Careers website. 

To find out more about joining CityCare, our vacancies, and opportunities for training email ncp.citycarecareers@nhs.net or visit our Work for us page.