Six students from South Lanarkshire joined NHS Lanarkshire in September 2022 to complete placements as part of their Business Skills Foundation Apprenticeship. They were placed in a variety of settings across NHS Lanarkshire including Law House, Lanark Health Centre, Rutherglen Health Centre and University Hospital Hairmyres. While on placement one day per week, the pupils were supported by their placement supervisor to take part in business or administration activities and complete a main project that contributes to achieving their qualification, which is the equivalent of a Scottish Higher.
Student and current Foundation Apprentice, Marcus, based at Lanark Health Centre, highlighted his positive placement experience:
“‘My time spent in the programme has been wonderful, I couldn’t have asked for a better mentor and I believe that the practical experience gained during my Foundation Apprenticeship has helped prepare me for the future better than any class could.”
His placement supervisor, Nanette, added:
“I feel having a Foundation Apprentice has been an enlightening experience for both myself and hopefully for Marcus. We have formed a good working relationship and I have been able to pass over my vast experience of working in admin to him. It has been a pleasure to work with someone who is very keen to learn the skillset essential to work in business/admin. I am sure he will make a wonderful colleague for whatever he plans to do in the future.”
In addition to support from placement supervisors, the NHS Lanarkshire Employability Hub Team delivers monthly interactive sessions for the students at their college on aspects such as interview skills and CVs. The Foundation Apprentice programme is an excellent example of partnership working as South Lanarkshire Council, South Lanarkshire College and NHS Lanarkshire work to ensure students have the best experience possible while completing their Apprenticeship.
The programme concludes at the end of April and following this, pupils will be better equipped for the future world of work with the skills and knowledge they have gained in industry.
