The achievements of apprentices at Dorset Hospital have been celebrated with a special news award.

Dorset County Hospital (DCH) held its first apprentice awards ceremony as part of National Apprenticeship week.

This event celebrated the achievements of 188 apprentices across a wide range of clinical and non-clinical roles and varying from Level 2 (GCSE equivalent) through to a Level 7 (master’s degree).

One such apprentice is Paul Myatt who is the Lead Health Play Specialist on DCH’s Kingfisher Children’s Ward.

He was named Apprentice of the Year after completing a Level 5 Health Play Specialist Apprenticeship through Solent University.

He said: “This has been an amazing opportunity. The apprenticeship allowed me to study and work at the same time, which meant I could continue to support my family while learning. I’ve grown in confidence and become a team leader.

“It’s been great to be able to share my learning with the whole team so we can provide the best care and support to children and young people on the ward.”

Another apprentice from Weymouth College, Severine Harvey, who is currently undergoing Level 3 Business Administrator Apprenticeship, was also named the Most Determined Apprentice.

Emma Hallett, DCH’s Deputy Chief People Officer, said: “Dorset County Hospital is passionate about offering apprenticeships to new and existing staff. They give people the opportunity to develop their skillset and further their careers, while making sure the Trust’s workforce has the skills to provide excellent care to our patients.

“Studying and learning while working takes a great deal of effort, commitment, and tenacity. We are incredibly proud of all our apprentices.”

The full list of apprentice winners can be found on the Dorset County Hospital website: https://www.dchft.nhs.uk/about-us/latest-news/dorset-county-hospital-celebrates-apprentice-achievements/