I have grown in confidence in my ability to take part in research and teaching

Why did you decide to become an Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) and what drew you to Sheffield in particular?

“I always enjoyed the more clinical side of nursing, as well as expanding my knowledge and increasing my own practical skills within my role. We had a well established team of ACPs working on the Paediatric Critical Care Unit and I really admired the way they used a combination of medical knowledge and their nursing backgrounds to care for children in critical care.

“I felt this was a career direction that I would enjoy, and the apprenticeship at The University of Sheffield gave me the opportunity to study whilst being close to home to look after my young family.”

What has your experience on the apprenticeship been like so far?

“I’ve enjoyed the more generalised learning that the lectures offer at university, and being able to apply this to my specific area of practice. That said, studying at university again - and at this level - required a change in mindset at the start of the course as it was a huge learning curve.”

How have you found the support offered by the University as an apprentice balancing both work and study?

“The University has been incredibly supportive in juggling work and study.

As someone who was diagnosed as dyslexic as a teenager taking on this level of study is nerve wrecking. However, my course tutors helped me identify ways in which I could receive additional help throughout my studies.

Charlotte Hussey

MMedSci Advanced Clinical Practice (Paediatrics)

"Throughout the course you have regular meetings with your university tutor to check on the level of support you're getting at both university and in clinical practice. I couldn't have asked for more.”

What difference do you think this course has made to both your practice and patient care in the Paediatric Critical Care Unit?

“I feel that I have grown in confidence in my ability to take part in research and teaching since starting the course, aspects that I wouldn't have previously wouldn't have been involved in.

“The role also offers a consistent approach to patient care, as well as bridging the gap between the nursing and medical team.”

Do you have any advice for healthcare professionals considering ACP training?

“I think, don't go into it blind; talk to other ACP's who are qualified or training when you're applying, meet with the course lead when you're applying so you have as much information as possible, and understand it is going to be a lot of work.

"However I would say it's completely worth it; I have had the time and support to develop myself in a way I never thought I would since doing my undergraduate degree, and honestly it is an amazing job!”