Debbie’s path to healthcare science success | Blog posts

Debbie has been with the Trust for over 22 years and is on a real high after becoming the first member of MYTT to successfully complete a level 6 degree apprenticeship in healthcare science, specialising in respiratory and sleep sciences.

When did you join the NHS?

I joined the NHS in 2003 as a ward assistant, then became a healthcare assistant in the operating theatres, where I completed NVQ Levels 2 and 3. Twelve years ago, I moved to the cardio-respiratory team as an assistant technical officer.

Why did you choose to do an apprenticeship?

I had reached the highest role possible without a degree and wanted to keep progressing. The apprenticeship was a practical, hands-on way to learn new skills and gain knowledge, opening up opportunities that weren’t available before. It was the next step in my growth, both professionally and personally.

How will the apprenticeship benefit your career/patients?

I personally feel that it will significantly enhance my clinical and professional capabilities as a qualified respiratory healthcare science practitioner.

It’s given me advanced knowledge and practical skills that directly translate into improved patient care. By staying up to date with new technologies and practices, I’ll be better equipped to support patients with complex respiratory conditions and help improve and develop our services.

Have you faced any challenges?

Throughout my career, I’ve faced a variety of challenges, and each one is unique and has shaped me in different ways. From adapting to new clinical environments to managing complex patient cases and balancing ongoing professional development, every hurdle has taught me something valuable.

Undertaking the apprenticeship alongside full-time work has brought its own set of challenges, particularly in balancing the demands of study with the responsibilities of my role and home life. However, I feel this experience has strengthened my time management, resilience, and commitment to continuous improvement, all of which benefit both my personal growth and the care I provide to patients.

What advice would you give to someone considering an apprenticeship?

I’d say just go for it. While it can be tough at times, an apprenticeship is incredibly rewarding. It offers you a real-world experience while you learn, but it does require commitment and resilience. I have done it, even at my age, and never thought I would!

Be prepared to juggle work and study as it is a challenge, but one that shapes your confidence, and ability to adapt under pressure. Surround yourself with a good support network, don’t be afraid to ask questions, and take every opportunity to learn. The growth you’ll see in yourself not just professionally but personally makes it all worthwhile in the end.

What do you enjoy the most about your role?

What I enjoy most about my role is the diagnostic work, it's rewarding to understand each patient’s condition. I also love the variety of people I meet and the difference I can make in their care. Just as important is the amazing team I work with. Their support, especially during this apprenticeship, has been incredible. Knowing I’m not alone and part of such a supportive group has made all the difference. I couldn’t have done it without them, and I’m very grateful.

Amanda Peace-Witton, Clinical Service Manager Respiratory Physiology and Sleep Services : 

“Debbie is an absolute asset to the team and has shown a strong desire to progress from the start. Expanding the team is always a positive step, as it enables us to provide more testing across additional sites and reach more patients. Specialist respiratory testing is complex and to be able to develop skills for this is very rewarding. It’s our aim to have another member of staff apply for the apprenticeship this upcoming academic year.”

Apprenticeships are one of the many training opportunities we offer to our colleagues. They allow them to continue working while learning new skills that benefit our patients and improve how we run our hospitals.