Can you describe what you do day-to-day? 
I lead the Nursing Associate Apprenticeship programme at Royal Brompton and Harefield hospitals, which involves working in partnership with universities, practice learning partners at other Trusts, and our local practice educators and managers. I also support and teach on various continuous professional development (CPD) programmes for our nursing staff, as well as programmes for our healthcare support workers – this covers a range of topics, but today I am wearing my Numeracy Champion hat to promote the importance of maths for National Numeracy Day.
A big part of my job is strategic planning, organising, and documenting, and keeping in touch with colleagues and authorities such as Health Education England (HEE) regional leads, and the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).
What do you like most about your job?
Being able to support nurses and healthcare support workers’ career progression and professional development. I also really enjoy networking with colleagues across the capital and contributing towards the national NHS workforce development plans.
Which part of your job is most challenging?
Accepting that change does not happen overnight!
What is the best/funniest thing a patient has ever said to you?
I have so many stories, after 16 years in critical care. But the best phrase is always, “Thank you nurse, I feel so much better now.”
Why did you decide to work in healthcare?
From a young age, I was curious about the human body and physiology, that later turned into a calling to look after patients. I soon figured out that as a nurse I could work anywhere in the world (I am from Finland originally), work with lots of different people, and have endless career options and opportunities for professional development.