Ellie Peplinski

Ellie Peplinski chose to do an apprenticeship so she could balance her studies alongside work. She has set exceptionally high standards in her learning and work placement. This has resulted in her receiving a number of employment offers and being awarded 'Apprentice of the Year' at the Solent Engage Awards, 2023.  She shares how she has benefited from being an apprentice.

Why did you want to do an apprenticeship?

I have always worked in healthcare since leaving school but was unsure which route I wanted to take. I was drawn to working within mental health and got a job with the Older Persons Mental Health team within Portsmouth just before Covid. Here, I was encouraged to explore becoming a mental health nurse. When I found out about the Solent registered mental health nursing apprenticeship it was the perfect opportunity for me to balance my studies alongside work and I felt really lucky to have the opportunity to do it this way.

What were your personal goals on entering the apprenticeship?

Joining the apprenticeship, my main goal was to qualify as a mental health nurse and work within an area I enjoy. I wanted to get more experience within the field and develop my skills and knowledge.

How has the apprenticeship moved you towards achieving those goals?

During my apprenticeship, I have had lots of opportunities to work within different teams, learning and becoming a part of lots of different services and getting first-hand experience. I’ve really enjoyed meeting new people who I may work with in the future and it has helped to increase my confidence in my own abilities.

I have had lots of support from both the University and my workplace during the apprenticeship, attending supervisions to reflect on my progress and gain feedback.

How has the apprenticeship benefitted you in the workplace?

The academic side of my apprenticeship has taught me a lot of useful theory that I've been able to bring into and use within the workplace. At work, I have been given more responsibilities within my role as I’ve progressed in the apprenticeship, working towards the goal of becoming a registered mental health nurse. My employer has also been extremely accommodating and supportive with my studies, which has helped me to balance my workload, making it feel more manageable.