Emma Fail

"I'm studying the BSc (Hons) Occupational Therapy Apprenticeship alongside working at the Priory Group in Darlington within inpatient mental health. I'm currently rotated to their mixed acute ward where I engage patients in groups and 1:1 sessions, promote engagement in the structured day, complete occupational assessment under supervision, and support the occupational therapy team in delivering site-wide sessions. I've also had experience within their acute and PICU wards.

To help me balance my work and studying, I've worked with my line manager to identify appropriate time each week that I dedicate to the completion of university work. Alongside this, I also have protected time once a week where I can attend online teaching sessions with University staff. I try to be as productive as possible in the dedicated university time whilst at work to limit the studying I need do at home, as I find it difficult to completely turn away from study. However, communicating with my manager and the OT team at work has helped ensure that I get enough time to engage in studying.

My apprenticeship has influenced my role at work by consolidating my knowledge of why we do what we do in the workplace. We often do things at work because that’s what you been told to do or that’s how it’s always been done. However, the apprenticeship had taught me to question what we do, develop my knowledge, and gain experience from those I work with. It's also helped me better understand the profession and the role.

Since starting the apprenticeship, I've received more opportunities in the workplace, getting the opportunity to engage and observe assessment and engage in multidisciplinary team meetings. The apprenticeship has allowed for my personal progression, as well as the benefit for further training being recognised within my team, inspiring others to begin the occupational therapy apprenticeship. It's also encouraged other occupational therapy assistants to explore training and courses in a variety of areas.

After graduating, I plan to continue working in inpatient mental health, however, in the future I'd like to move into occupational therapy in the criminal justice system. I'd also be interested in broadening my knowledge of the sensory aspects of occupational therapy, having been exposed to this whilst on placement.

I'd encourage anyone thinking about it to enrol on an apprenticeship, as it allows you to consolidate learning experiences immediately and continually put things you learn into practice. Utilise any opportunity you can get involved in on campus, at work, and on placements. Don’t be shy to show your confidence and ability when on placement if you have experience in the workplace, as educators work with apprentices quite often!

I've had a positive experience overall at Sunderland, being part of the first occupational therapy apprenticeship cohort. I have good communication with lecturers whilst I'm back in the workplace and get the opportunity to attend on-campus sessions and feel part of the University group."