Apprenticeships have come a long way in recent years, as Debbie McArthur can confirm.
Having completed a masters-level apprenticeship (Level 7), Debbie, who works at East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT), said the qualification boosted her confidence in her role as an NHS manager.
Debbie, who is the head of apprenticeships and leadership, felt it was important she led by example and complete the qualification she was promoting. She also wanted to do it for herself to prove she was capable.
She said: “Working in the NHS with senior leadership teams, up to board level, is challenging. I’m surrounded by highly educated, academic people. Completing the apprenticeship has boosted my confidence. It’s also made me realise I’ve been making the right decisions in my role and in turn making an impact for patients.”
Debbie said her role impacts patients by making sure staff are highly trained to deliver healthcare. “Our leadership programmes impact patient outcomes because the right style of leadership instils a strong culture of equitability and fairness. This translates to staff who are happier in their work and it is proven that good leadership reduces staff sickness, absence and turnover which in turn provides consistency of care and less chance of errors being made due to pressure and understaffing.”
Debbie McArthur
Debbie completed the two-year Level 7 Senior Leader apprenticeship in September last year with a distinction.
Going through the process has given her a greater understanding of what’s involved when it comes to sharing the benefits of apprenticeships with colleagues and new recruits to share why the Trust is a great place to train.
She said: “I left school at 16 with few qualifications. It was when I ran my own business and started interviewing people with more qualifications than I had that I thought about my own education again.”
Debbie has previously completed an Open University degree in childhood and youth studies.
Debbie added: “The apprenticeship has given me credibility in my role. It’s also helped continue my passion for developing my skills. I’ve had two promotions since taking on my role and I’m certain this is down to the apprenticeship. You can keep on developing and growing whatever your age.”
Debbie, who was diagnosed with thyroid cancer in 2012, and then developed alopecia in 2017 due to stress related to the condition, said it’s never too late to change course in life or try something new.
She added: “Constantly learning is part of the excitement of life and can lead to new opportunities. You never know where it’s going to take you.”
There’s a variety of career development opportunities available at ESNEFT:
- You can find out more about apprenticeship opportunities on the ESNEFT website.
- Short-term work experience placements are available. Email workexperience@esneft.nhs.uk
- You can email our Talent For Care team talentforcare@esneft.nhs.ukto find out more about the opportunities at ESNEFT or to ask any questions about NHS careers.
- Job opportunities at ESNEFT are listed on the NHS job page.