“I’ve been here for a couple of years now working on my Level 2 and 3 apprenticeships, and have seen the Home grow significantly in that time – from just 9 residents to 24! It’s lovely to see that progression and be part of the growth”.
We caught up with Cassey Stanley who has just finished her Level 3 Health & Social Care apprenticeship at Yelverton Residential Home and has been promoted to a Senior Support Worker as a result.
“The Level 3 qualification made it possible for me to progress and take on more responsibility at the Home, by giving me the confidence and knowledge for the job. For example, I am now qualified to handle and dispense medication, and then upload the data immediately on an iPhone so that all staff have access to it.
“Learning on the job is really important in this industry as you develop the people skills that are vital to interact with residents. No two days are the same in the Home, so the training prepares you for any surprises, such as resident falls, that you wouldn’t experience in college. On a day-to-day basis, I can be involved in everything from getting residents washed and dressed, to liaising with family members, and positioning hoists correctly so that residents can be moved safely.
“The training with Skills Group was also very interesting – we covered varied modules such as end of life care. This is an area that is extremely rewarding, as, if a family member can’t make it in time to say goodbye to their loved one, they are very grateful that you were with them.
“The team at Skills Group have been very supportive throughout my apprenticeship, and I have a great relationship with them; I would definitely recommend this route if you are thinking about entering the care sector!”