Debbie Coles

Company- RD+E NHS Foundation

College- University of Plymouth

Apprenticeship- Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship

I joined the University of Plymouth as a Registered Nurse Degree Apprentice in September 2020 after being part of the NHS since 2003. During my time with the NHS i worked my way up to a band 4 assistant practitioner, but i still wanted to progress. Unfortunately this was almost impossible due to a lack of funds, however the chance came for me when to opportunity to be an apprentice appeared. I thought- ‘I am too old for this! Who would want me, I am not sure I am even capable’.

Since being with UOP I have really enjoyed my learning experience – very different due to COVID restrictions, I am a whizz at zoom lectures, and feel so supported by the team surrounding me. I am now over half way through my second year as a student Nurse, have completed a placement with the community Nursing team – which i loved and am looking forward to working on an acute ward at the RD+E NHS foundation trust.

My advice would be – go for it! take the opportunity and fly, if I can do this I am sure you can too, good luck and seize your future with both hands.”