Explore work-based learning at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board

To mark Apprenticeship Week, we’re celebrating colleagues who have successfully completed apprenticeship programmes with Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.

Apprenticeships aren’t just for entry-level roles and school leavers, they’re suitable for colleagues at all levels who are looking to progress their career, learn new skills or change job roles.

Apprenticeship Week Wales is an opportunity to highlight the breadth of different opportunities available to those with varied work experience and career goals. The Health Board is enthusiastic about work-based learning and the range of benefits it can have at an individual and organisational level.

Lauren Dando worked in retail before completing an apprenticeship with the Health Board. She applied because she “wanted to work in a sector that makes a real difference in people’s lives”. Lauren saw an apprenticeship as the perfect bridge between her existing customer service skills and a long-term career in administration in the NHS.

Lauren appreciated the opportunity to learn on-the-job, with hands-on experience.

“There isn’t as much pressure to know everything from the start,” she explains, “you’re given time to learn, develop your skills, and gain confidence in your role.”

With help from her manager and other teammates, Lauren now works as an Administrator for the Security Team and has also stepped up in the Security Control Room when needed.

Lauren’s apprenticeship has opened her eyes to the different career paths available, and she aspires to take on more responsibility, moving into project management and eventually into a senior administrative role.

“If you’re looking for a rewarding career with strong prospects, an NHS apprenticeship is a fantastic choice” she says.

Before starting his apprenticeship with Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, Diogo was lacking a clear route into a stable and fulfilling career.

Seeking meaningful work with professional development, Diogo applied for an apprenticeship with the Medical Education (MedEd) team at the Health Board. Regular check-ins, clear guidance, and on-the-job training helped him build confidence and soon Diogo became an invaluable member of the team.

Diogo found the apprenticeship process incredibly rewarding, “I’ve felt valued throughout, and the work I’ve done has had real impact” he said. “It’s a brilliant way to develop your skills while contributing to something meaningful.” He looks forward to continuing his development and making a real impact among the team.

Diogo’s line manager said: “Diogo brought new talent and energy to our team. His fresh perspective helped us update long-established systems, which were then implemented on a wider scale. Watching him grow in confidence and capability has been incredibly rewarding. His journey has even inspired others in the team to pursue their own development opportunities.”

Kimberley Chagweta began her NHS career at 19, shortly after moving to the UK from abroad.

Kimberley completed her Level 2 qualification in Business Administration whilst working in a GP practice and is now completing her Level 3 course alongside her latest administration role with the All Wales Medical Genomics Service.

Regular meetings with her assessor and ongoing feedback as part of her apprenticeship courses have helped her apply learnings to her daily responsibilities, and her apprenticeship has sparked a deeper interest in a long-term NHS career, particularly in nursing.

Colleagues recognise her compassionate nature shining through, particularly when interacting with colleagues and patients. Her apprenticeship projects have showcased both her technical and communication skills, which has boosted Kimberley’s confidence in a business administration setting and inspired further professional development.

We want to thank to all Health Board colleagues who have completed apprenticeships, advanced in their careers and contributed to strengthening and enriching our services.

You can find out more about Cardiff and Vale University Health Board’s Apprenticeship Academy by visiting Apprenticeship Academy - Cardiff and Vale University Health Board or contact emma.bendle@wales.nhs.uk for more information.