NHS Property Services is marking National Apprenticeship Week (NAW) by celebrating the positive impact of apprenticeships on individuals, businesses and the wider UK economy.
The theme for NAW 2004, #Skills for Life, complements NHS Property Services (NHSPS’) employee development strategy, ‘Get, Grow, and Keep great people’, as it continues to look for new opportunities to support learning and development.
Our aim is to make this a great place to work, with an open and inclusive culture, encouraging all colleagues to reach their full potential and be the best they can be …
“Our aim is to make this a great place to work, with an open and inclusive culture, encouraging all colleagues to reach their full potential and be the best they can be,” explains Rina Pandya, Chief People Officer at NHS Property Services (NHSPS).
NHSPS continues to grow its apprenticeship programme, with more than 125 apprentices covering over 20 different specialisms. This benefits colleagues both professionally and personally to develop new skills, knowledge and behaviours.
This year the organisation has had achievers in Chef Production, Facilities Services, Plumbing and Domestic Heating and Senior Leaders. And we have colleagues starting their apprenticeship journey in Data Science, Chartered Surveyor, Customer Service Practitioner, and Graduate Solicitor Level 7.
It has also invested in its first cohort of ‘Women in Leadership’ apprentices, with a focus on supporting our female colleagues with their career development into management and leadership roles.
NHSPS has enjoyed success with a growing number of apprentices who put the customer at the heart of what they do. It is proud to have Electrical apprentice, William Harwood Moss shortlisted for ‘The Campbell Cummings Building Services Apprentice of the Year’ at Salford College.
Apprenticeships give existing colleagues meaningful opportunities for growth and development.
“Apprenticeships give existing colleagues meaningful opportunities for growth and development. They’re a fantastic way to attract diverse talent to join our organisation and give people important skills for life”, says Penny Swift, NHSPS’ Apprenticeship Manager.
“We’re continually exploring ways to expand and enhance our development initiatives, and we will be opening up more apprentice opportunities in 2024/25”
I adore everything about my job. Nothing gets the better of me. I love the variety and mucking in to deliver the best possible customer service.
Case Study
Christine’s Story – “It’s never too late to make a change, but you must be brave!”
Christine Latham, a front-line Maintenance Assistant at NHSPS who embarked on her plumbing apprenticeship last year, says:
“It’s never too late to make a change. Age is no barrier, I’m proof of this. But you must be brave. One day in 2022, after working as a domestic assistant, I attended a taster day for maintenance operatives. That single day changed my life.
“I adore everything about my job. Nothing gets the better of me. I love the variety and mucking in to deliver the best possible customer service. I enjoy a chat and a laugh with our NHS customers, treating them the way I want to be treated and I’ve always got a smile to brighten their day.
“Before I could blink, I got an interview for the role of maintenance assistant. I didn’t hesitate; I was ready to go for it. I’ve always been good at DIY, it’s in my genes. My mum was brilliant at making and fixing, and so are my siblings. So, with a love of working with my hands, and years of experience to back it up, I only went and smashed the interview!
“I started my dream job in April 2023 at age 55. I began something new at an age when some people are thinking about retiring.
“I started my dream job in April 2023 at age 55. I began something new at an age when some people are thinking about retiring. I enrolled on a City & Guilds course, but my line manager at the time encouraged me to switch to an apprenticeship. I’m already bursting with pride that I’ll turn fifty-nine when I become a fully qualified plumber. Imagine getting paid to do what you love? It’s changed the way I look at everything. The sky’s the limit for me now, I only wish I’d done it sooner! If you’re thinking of making a change just do it! You may discover a bigger passion you imagined.
“The support from colleagues has been amazing. My line manager, Ian Evans; Technical Services Supervisor, Nick Taylor and my wonderful mentor, plumber, Paul Skyner. I couldn’t wish for a better bunch to work with, or to ask advice from. I’ve never known anything like it. NHSPS really is an incredible place to work.”
National Apprenticeship Week takes from 5th to 11th February is an opportunity for the education and skills sector to celebrate the achievements of apprentices around the country.
NHSPS manages 2,700 properties with 6,300 customers across England, which accounts for approximately 10 per cent of the total NHS estate. The portfolio includes listed buildings, new integrated care centres, hospitals, GP practices and offices.
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