Jill is a Community Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) for the NHS who pursued our Advanced Clinical Practitioner degree apprenticeship to aid her career advancement. 

“My everyday work life is different, involving studying, undertaking modules and portfolio work, and visiting patients on the frailty virtual ward or acute home visits. My team starts each day with a morning meeting to allocate visits and discuss concerns. The workload can be busy, but it provides opportunities for learning and development.

“I work in a multiskilled team of qualified ACP’s and trainee ACP’s including non-medical prescribers. We work alongside the frailty team to review and assess complex, frail, and elderly patients, including investigations and reviewing results, to speed up discharges for patients admitted to the ward. 

“Our team works closely with district nurses to coordinate care for patients with complex medical and social needs, including palliative and end-of-life patients. We also communicate with GPs to support housebound patients in the community. 

“I enjoy learning and applying advanced skills during patient home visits, as well as gaining a better understanding of my own abilities.”

“The ‘contemporary issues’ module has been enjoyable, focusing on the development of ACP’s roles within the NHS. We identify factors that can influence the job role, including imposter syndrome and professional identity and how we can overcome these as practitioners. 

“I recommend seeking support from library services for academic writing, I found it extremely helpful for referencing and critical writing. 

“The apprenticeship reflects the challenges of working full-time and studying, but I find the role rewarding and fulfilling as it makes a difference to patients in the community. 

“I hope to qualify as a Community ACP and continue to utilise the skills and experience I have learnt and developed during my apprenticeship.”