Published on: 16th August 2021
Lincolnshire’s mental health, learning disability and autism NHS trust is on the lookout for the next generation of mental health nurses after teaming up with the University of Lincoln to once again launch its nursing degree apprenticeship scheme.
Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust (LPFT) is committed to providing pathways and opportunities for people of all backgrounds to become a nurse, with the Registered Nursing Degree Apprentice scheme just one of the exciting new initiatives being used to ensure Trust services are filled with the highest quality of staff available.
The apprenticeship enables up to 20 people with an interest in mental healthcare to study for a BSc Mental Health Nursing degree at the University of Lincoln, whilst getting first-hand practical experience through a range of inpatient and community nursing placements.
At the same time, the aspiring nurses can earn a salary for the shifts they work whilst also having their university fees covered.
Kayna Penrose-Toms was a member of the hugely successful first intake to start their apprenticeship with LPFT in January 2021.
She had previously followed the traditional route of doing her nursing training at a university in York, but struggled with being away from home, as well as the financial pressures of studying for a degree.
The apprenticeship has removed those worries whilst also providing Miss Penrose-Toms with the opportunity to continue working towards a career in her dream profession.
She said: “My grandma was a nurse and I have always wanted to follow in her footsteps, but after my experience at university, I was worried I wouldn’t be able to.
“The apprenticeship provides me with the perfect balance of being paid for the work I do and also covers the cost of studying for my degree.
“The staff at LPFT have been incredibly supportive. I have learnt so much already and I can’t wait to see how my career unfolds.”
Kay Gilman, Head of Workforce Transformation at LPFT, added: “We are proud to have teamed up with the University of Lincoln to develop and nurture the next generation of mental health nurses.
“These apprenticeships provide the perfect opportunity to gain hands on experience of working in a paid clinical NHS role all while being supported to get your degree and having your education fees covered.
“If you are looking for a meaningful role and a career where you will have the support to grow and develop while also the reward of helping people, then we would love to receive your application.”
Applications are open until 25 August 2021 for the apprenticeship scheme. Anyone interested in the role can find out more information and submit their application through the NHS jobs website at https://www.jobs.nhs.uk/xi/vacancy/916650890
To find out more about the other exciting opportunities currently available within LPFT please visit www.lpft.nhs.uk/work-for-us
