Everyone I know can see how much I'm enjoying it!
Why did you decide to apply for this speech and language therapy apprenticeship?
“I am relatively new to the exciting world of speech and language therapy (SLT) - previously I was a primary school teacher. After working as an SLT assistant for a couple of years I really wanted to know more and be able to deliver more support and knowledge to the students I work with, who have complex needs.”
What are the biggest benefits of an apprenticeship compared to other routes into this career pathway?
“The apprenticeship offers amazing opportunities to continue working and earn a salary, alongside developing my skills and knowledge through studying and the chance to experience other settings through placements.
“At this stage in my life (I am 51 years old) I couldn't think of a better way of gaining a new qualification and so many more varied experiences in the workplace. I love knowing that I am continuously learning and growing as a professional. I have a supportive team of therapists checking in with me at every stage, helping me to develop my knowledge, skills and behaviours.”
What is one of the biggest challenges you have faced, and how have you overcome this?
“My course at Sheffield is all online, which is amazing as there are no universities local to me who currently offer the apprenticeship. However I am not the most tech-minded individual! I was worried that I would find the technical aspects too demanding and would get left behind. Luckily, we have been guided every step of the way and I am learning more all the time. Also, the apprentices on my course have a very active and supportive WhatsApp group - there is always someone who is able to help if any of us get stuck!”
How has your role in the workplace changed since starting your apprenticeship?
“Since starting the apprenticeship I have been lucky enough to observe SLTs carrying out assessments and then discuss the outcomes. I represent the SLT team at multi-disciplinary meetings and feedback to the SLT team. I manage my own caseload and work with students with a variety of needs - using a wide-range of methods - both one-to-one and in groups, rather than sticking to the same regular, group sessions I delivered as an assistant.”
How are you supported by the University of Sheffield and your employer?
“I have a workplace mentor who I meet with once a week to discuss elements of my caseload as well as the needs of my apprenticeship. I also have a personal tutor from the University of Sheffield who I meet with every 8-10 weeks alongside my workplace mentor. Together we identify any gaps in my knowledge and decide on targets to work on over the next 8-10 weeks.
“I am very lucky that both my mentor and my personal tutor are available for questions and queries whenever I need them, also that they are both very positive and encouraging. My workplace mentor has also made sure that my team is aware that I may not be available to do all the admin/resource-making tasks that I previously did as an SLT assistant.
“The university tutors who lead the modules in my course are also approachable and knowledgeable. They have been great at teaching new content and also taking the time to address any worries or concerns we may have along the way.”
What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?
“I would say go for it! I think it is such a great way to continue to work and develop your skills in the workplace while learning all the theory behind why we do it all. Everyone I know can see how much I'm enjoying it!
I feel so lucky to have been given this opportunity at an exciting new career at this later stage in my life. If you love speech and language therapy and you love learning, this is a perfect way to combine the two!
Suzanne Brigden