OTnews September 2023 | Page 38

Q & A
The programme has developed and cemented my own knowledge in the field . I was able to learn more of the theory about the profession , while also building on my skills , all while working towards a degree qualification without having to give up work .”

Q & A

Q & A with Natalie Norman

Natalie Norman is an Occupational Therapy Assistant for Gateshead Council . Currently undertaking a degree apprenticeship at Northumbria University , here she shares her journey in the hope of inspiring anyone wishing to progress in their careers and gain formal qualifications without having to give up work .

Q

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Why did you decide to undertake a degree apprenticeship ?
Although I have been working in the field of social care for almost two decades , when I finished school , occupational therapy wasn ’ t a role or career that I knew existed .
I very much fell into the role by chance and after 10 years of experience as an assistant in the occupational therapy team , I was keen to progress in my workplace . I ’ d reached the top of my pay grade and there were no further progression opportunities , unless I gained formal qualifications as an occupational therapist .
With family commitments and financial responsibilities , pursuing a full-time degree seemed impractical . However , I was determined to progress my career and receive formal recognition for my work . That ’ s why when I heard about the Occupational Therapist Degree Apprenticeship programme at Northumbria University , I was encouraged to consider it and put my name forward .
I am set to graduate in December , and due to the significant experience I had demonstrated , I was able to skip the first year and enter at year two .

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What have you gained from the programme so far ?
The programme has developed and cemented my own knowledge in the field . I was able to learn more of the theory about the profession , while also building on my skills , all while working towards a degree qualification without having to give up work .
When I worked as an assistant , I would talk to patients about adaptations that would make their lives easier , assessing the environment and the person ’ s function , but often without considering other factors in their life .
Now I have gained a much better understanding and look at the full picture – plus any potential challenges – through an occupational therapy lens .
For example , since undertaking the programme , when I speak to a patient who struggles to get upstairs to bed – as well as considering the physical impact and how we can make that easier or provide an alternative – I will also consider the wider impact ; how will not being able to sleep in the same bed as their partner or spouse affect their wellbeing , mood and mental health ?
The programme has developed and cemented my own knowledge in the field . I was able to learn more of the theory about the profession , while also building on my skills , all while working towards a degree qualification without having to give up work .”
38 OTnews September 2023