“You really feel like you’re part of the team” – Danielle’s story, Apprenticeships Week 2020

Danielle Hunt completed her apprenticeship with Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear NHS Foundation Trust, and is now an Administration Team Lead at our Walkergate Park site. She told us all about her progression from apprentice to full-time staff member…

I joined the Trust as a business administration apprentice aged 17, working in corporate services whilst doing my Level 3 and Level 4 apprenticeships. I then went on to work in the perinatal team as administration team lead before gaining my current administration team lead role in neurorehabilitation.

I’ve been working at Walkergate Park since November last year and it’s a really supportive environment. You really feel like you’re part of the team and admin is well-respected.

Part of my role involves overseeing the current apprentices at Walkergate Park, offering additional support and supervision. I have regular meetings with them to discuss their progress. As I have been an apprentice myself, I know what it’s like and can support them through their journey. I encourage them to be honest about what aspects they’re enjoying and which parts they might not be enjoying as much. The apprentices know they can come to me if they have any questions or issues.

The best thing about an apprenticeship with CNTW is that you can move teams, gaining experience and knowledge in different areas. The training opportunities are also great, I think I’ve done every bit of training I possibly could!