Nicole Shaw – Trainee Project Support Officer
I have just completed my first year of a modern apprenticeship with the NHS Transformation Unit (TU). After finishing my A Levels and following an initial interest in accountancy, my focus changed when I discovered a role working for the NHS. As I am just 20-years-old, I am now developing a variety of new skills in a sought-after training programme at the TU.
The first thing I do when I get in to work is…
Find a hot desk to sit on for the day and set up my laptop. I then have a brief scan of my emails for anything urgent before making a much needed brew! I try to take it easy first thing in the morning because I have a long (and very crowded) train journey into the office.
When I’m not in the office, I’m normally found…
Shopping during my lunch break, but I don’t always have the time.
After a busy day, I relax by…
Socialising with friends or watching Netflix. My favourite show at the minute is Arrested Development.
Why are you passionate about the NHS?
I stumbled on the NHS apprenticeship scheme when I was searching for a job and I love it. My passion has grown after witnessing the positive impact of our various projects. During my first year I’ve become a lot more aware of our need for the NHS. Whilst spending some time in Australia, I met a doctor from America who told me about their health service and it made me feel grateful for our easy access to healthcare. .
The best thing about working at the TU is…
The chance to develop my skills. I feel that my role as an apprentice has already progressed and I’m determined to succeed with my qualification. I am involved in some project support work for the business unit and colleagues have listened to what I am most passionate about – anything numbers or spreadsheet related – and helped to develop me in that area.
If I weren’t doing this job, I would be …
Working in my dream job as a professional cake decorator, owning a tea shop with my sister.