An event to celebrate the achievements of some of the young people who joined our Modern Apprenticeship Programme has heard stories of success, accomplishment and delight at securing full time posts with NHS Lanarkshire.
The event also offered managers, who have supported and encouraged our modern apprentices the opportunity to offer their gratitude and immense pride to each of the apprentices for their dedication, hard work, and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Lorraine Scott, HR Business Partner – Employability, said: “Our Modern Apprenticeship Programme is a great way for 16-24 year olds to get experience directly in the workplace, working within NHS Lanarkshire while studying towards a college level qualification.
“Completing our programme gives young people the skills and experience which will help them to progress and succeed within their career along with gaining recognised qualifications.
“We provide a lot of support on our modern apprentices throughout their journey, with Mentors and an Employability team to help them with anything they need, alongside the support they receive in the department of their placement.
“This year has been a year of challenges and triumphs. Our healthcare system continues to face unprecedented trials, and it is in these times of adversity that the true spirit of our team shines through. Our apprentices have not only risen to these challenges but have also shown extraordinary resilience, adaptability, and a passion for learning that has inspired us all.
“Our modern apprentices are the lifeblood of our future and we recognise the unique journey each of them has undertaken. Balancing rigorous training, practical work, and personal commitments is no small feat and they have done it with grace, determination, and an eagerness to excel. They have demonstrated the qualities that define the very best of Health and Social Care: compassion, professionalism, and a relentless pursuit of excellence.”
Melissa Smillie is 23 years old and worked with the Health Visiting Team at the Holdsworth Centre in Wishaw offering support with telephone calls and some administrative work.
Melissa also did a day with the phlebotomy team learning about wound care and sutures. It was doing this work that made Melissa want to do more clinical work and through study and learning has gain a full time post as a clinical support worker in the accident and emergency department at University Hospital Wishaw.
Melissa said: “Doing the modern apprenticeship with NHS Lanarkshire has been really beneficial and opened a lot of doors for me. I want to become a nurse and have been encouraged to pursue this for my future.
“The staff I have worked with have been very supportive and helpful and I would recommend any young person wanting experience and the chance of a career with the NHS to apply for one of the apprenticeships with NHS Lanarkshire.”
Eighteen year old Jack has been working with the eHealth team at Kirklands and still has a bit of time before his apprenticeship comes to an end but he is hopeful that he will be offered a post as a digital engineer.
Jack added: “I have really enjoyed my time working with eHealth team and would like to stay with NHS Lanarkshire.
“Everyone I have worked with, including my immediate manager, Lyle, have been very helpful and supportive and treated me like one of the team.
“The opportunity to learn and build your knowledge with the NHS is one of the best apprenticeships you can take and I would encourage young people to think about it for their future.”
