NHS Forth Valley is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its Modern Apprenticeship programme, marking a decade of supporting people and improving local health care services.

Since its launch, apprentices have joined NHS teams in a wide variety of roles, combining hands-on experience with learning and further development opportunities. Through the programme, students have developed skills, gained qualifications, and gone on to enjoy positive, rewarding careers.

Many have gone on to build long-term careers within the local health board, moving into specialist clinical and technical roles, while continuing to make a difference to the lives of patients, colleagues and communities.

To mark the milestone, NHS Forth Valley caught up with three former apprentices whose journeys reflect the programme's importance and lasting impact.

Nearly a decade after joining as a Modern Apprentice, Jamie Dickson now works as a Simulation Technician at the Scottish Centre for Simulation and Clinical Human Factors at Forth Valley Royal Hospital.

Reflecting on the programme's milestone, Jamie said: “Finding out how folk got on and where they ended up was eye-opening and a really great showcase of what a modern apprenticeship can lead to.”

When asked what keeps him at NHS Forth Valley, Jamie said: “My job has kept me here. I love it. It’s genuinely one of the best things in the world to come into work and enjoy it the way I do.”

Former Modern Apprentice Emma Sloss now works as a Healthcare Support Worker with NHS Forth Valley's Children's Community Nursing Service. She said: “The support I received from both my assessor and line manager played a huge part in helping me succeed.

Jamie Dickson started his NHS career as an apprentice. (Pic. Contributed.)

placeholder image — Jamie Dickson started his NHS career as an apprentice. (Pic. Contributed.)

“Completing my apprenticeship helped give me the knowledge and skills which have led me to where I am today."

Aimee Keith joined NHS Forth Valley as a 17-year-old Modern Apprentice and now works as a Technical Analyst within its eHealth team.

Since completing her apprenticeship, Aimee has progressed through several roles in digital services while continuing to develop as a professional.

She said: "When I first started, I was quite an anxious person and even answering the phone felt daunting. With the support and encouragement of my colleagues, my confidence grew enormously."

Encouraging others to sign up for the apprenticeship, Aimee added: “The apprenticeship taught me that you don't need to know everything from day one. Being willing to learn, ask questions and challenge yourself can take you a long way."

Noelle Mackay, NHS Forth Valley’s employability manager, said: “Over the last 10 years, NHS Forth Valley’s Modern Apprenticeship programme has helped many young people gain valuable qualifications, develop practical skills and build successful careers across a wide range of health services.

“The experiences of Jamie, Emma and Aimee demonstrate how apprenticeships can help people build confidence and progress into rewarding careers across NHS Forth Valley and beyond.

"As NHS Forth Valley celebrates this important anniversary, it is also recognising the contribution of the many local managers, mentors, assessors and colleagues who have supported apprentices throughout their careers and helped nurture the next generation of talent.”

For more information on NHS Forth Valley apprenticeship opportunities, visit the website.