An apprenticeship was right for me – Holly's story
Holly joined The Learning Foundry nearly two years ago as one of our dental nurse apprentices. With less than a month to go until she’s finished her qualification, we went to see how Holly is getting on, and what’s next in her career...
Two years has gone so quickly! I started my apprenticeship in dental nursing in July 2021 and I can’t believe I’m nearly done!
When I finished my A-Levels I knew that I didn’t want to go to uni. At sixth form I always hated sitting down in one place all day. Even though I picked hands-on subjects at A-Level, like photography and art, I knew I wanted to find something where I could be active and still learn at the same time. I started searching for apprenticeships myself. I found the vacancy at Roby Road Dental Practice, and they put me through my training with The Learning Foundry.
The Learning Foundry have been so supportive. I know my tutor is there for me if I have any problems or questions, she always replies so quickly!
Doing an apprenticeship was the right choice for me. I’m working in surgery every day, and over two years I really have done a bit of everything. We see NHS and private clients, so every day is different and varied.
I feel like I’ve learnt everything I need to be a dental nurse. Between what I’ve learnt in the surgery and in my workshops, I feel like I’ve covered it all.
Learning with TLF has been completely different to being at school. It’s a blended learning style and I find lessons on Microsoft Teams are easier but equally as useful. Face-to-face lessons are really interesting, too. I’ve been trained to deliver CPR and the best ways to deal with different types of patients, which I apply in my role every day.
I’m independent and supported at the same time. The Learning Foundry treat you like an adult, trusting you to use the skills they’ve taught you in a professional environment.
It’s been amazing to learn something completely new. I didn’t know anything about dental nursing before I started and now, I’m confident that I will be a good dental nurse when I’ve completed my apprenticeship in July.
My next steps are to complete more training. I’m looking to do a course in implant fitting and even a lead nurse qualification. I’m confident that I can be head nurse here because I have all the skills I need!
Looking to gain all the skills you need to succeed? Contact our friendly team on 0300 123 8088 or email info@thelearningfoundry.co.uk
Find out more about our training programmes: https://www.thelearningfoundry.co.uk/apprenticeships