Annette Connor, Apprenticeship and Career Development Lead for Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, on how every fresh intake of apprentices brings with it a raft of new talent and ideas that benefit the Trust…
Name: Annette Connor
Title: Apprenticeship and Career Development Lead
Company: Cumbria Northumberland Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust
What does your organisation do?
We are a specialist mental health, learning disability and neuro-rehab Health Trust.
How long has it been employing apprentices?
Since 2008.
How many apprentices (approximately) has your organisation delivered?
Approximately 900
Why are apprentices important?
Apprenticeships are a fantastic way to develop staff as part of a career pathway. They’re ideal for helping address workforce planning issues and provide opportunities for enthusiastic new people to join the organisation.
What is the biggest benefit apprentices provide?
The undoubted benefit is the that every fresh intake brings with it a raft of new talent and ideas that benefit the Trust.
What is the most challenging aspect of providing apprenticeships?
Recruiting them. Recruitment can be a real challenge for most organisations.
What would you say to any business considering providing apprenticeship?
You get out what you put in, but time invested in an apprentice or apprenticeship is time very well spent. The time and effort is well worth the outcome.
Finally, why is the North East Apprenticeships Ambassadors Network important?
There are so many benefits on being part of this vibrant and motivated network, but for us, the number one benefit has to be the forum it provides for allowing us to share and receive fresh ideas and, occasionally access guidance and support.
