I already feel like my confidence has greatly increased
What are the biggest benefits of an apprenticeship compared to other routes into this career pathway?
“I feel the biggest benefit is that you can apply what you have learned in the workplace whilst you are learning, benefiting from the experience of qualified speech and language therapists (SALTs) that you work with. I feel that it also gives you a better idea of what the career will feel like once qualified.”
What is one of the biggest challenges you have faced, and how have you overcome this?
“The biggest challenge has been juggling work, study and home life as well as using new technology. I have overcome this by having boundaries with my time and being organized. I also make sure I keep a clear perspective on expectations, explore any help and advice that has been offered and look after myself by doing things that I enjoy to help deal with pressures and stress!”
How is this apprenticeship helping you to develop personally and professionally?
“I am at the start of my apprenticeship journey, but I already feel like my confidence has greatly increased."
I now feel confident that I am capable of studying and achieving my goal of becoming a qualified speech and language therapist and am very excited by the prospect.
Maria Shemmans
“I am also learning the skills of academic study and am learning the broader skills related to SALT professional practices.”
How has your role in the workplace changed since starting your apprenticeship?
“Since starting the apprenticeship, I have begun to use some of the information I have studied to broaden my skills in the workplace. I have recently moved to a team in a different area within my service which will allow me to build on the skills I have, giving me exposure to other SALT responsibilities.”
How are you supported by the University of Sheffield and your employer?
“I feel very well supported. I am supported at university by my personal tutor and module organiser. In the workplace I am supported by my mentor and team leader. We also have an Apprenticeship team that coordinates the apprenticeships in our service.”
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?
“I would say go for it! I have no regrets, but I would say make sure you research and find out as much as you can about the commitments around work and study, particularly around travel time and expenses. Try to find out if the workplace has any experience with apprenticeships and speak with someone that is already doing an apprenticeship in the workplace.”