The Apprentice .. in Sussex: Meet our brilliant NHS apprentice from Crawley

The candidates on the popular BBC show take part in tasks each week with the ultimate goal of getting an investment for their business plan from Lord Sugar. But is this really what a real-life apprentice goes through each week?

In a new series on SussexWorld.co.uk, we meet apprentices across Sussex to explain what they do and what being an apprentice in the real world is like.

It takes commitment and hard work to move to a different country and start a new career but thanks to apprenticeship opportunities supported by Queen Victoria Hospital (QVH), Sonya Chavdarova from Crawley has done just that.

The theme of National Apprenticeship Week (February (6-13) is amazing apprenticeships and Sonya Chavdarova, who was promoted to Senior Ophthalmic Technician in the hospital’s corneoplastic (eye) department, wants to say thank you for the amazing opportunities the apprenticeship scheme has given her.

After moving to the UK from Bulgaria with her husband and young son, Sonya joined QVH in 2014, completing a Level 3 Senior Health Care Assistant apprenticeship in 2018. Determined to learn, Sonya started her Level 4 Health Care Science in Ophthalmology apprenticeship in January 2020, studying through the Covid pandemic, completing last year.

Through apprenticeships, Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead offers its staff the opportunity to achieve a qualification whilst earning a salary. They enable hardworking staff to gain new skills through studying and hands-on experience, progress in their career and most importantly, support the hospital in caring for its patients. Apprenticeships are available from Level 2 right through to Level 7 (Masters).

Sonya said: “my colleagues have always encouraged me, guided me and believed in me. During the pandemic there was a time that I did not believe that I could do it but the support I received from everyone kept me going. I really did not want to disappoint anyone by quitting.”

With a promotion under her belt, Sonya is setting her sights on developing further.

Sonya continues: “apprenticeships helped me to be more confident and competent in what I do and allow me to continue working with the best team ever.”

Interim director of workforce and organisational development at Queen Victoria Hospital, Lawrence Anderson said: “We are delighted to be able to support staff right across our organisation to start or further their career through apprenticeship opportunities. They enable us as a hospital to attract and train hard-working, committed individuals who enjoy learning and earning at the same time, whilst providing the best possible care for our patients.”

See more: The Apprentice .. in Sussex: Meet our brilliant candidate from Crawley-based Thales, Crawley Local Plan sets out where housing development will take place over next 20 years, Crawley council helps students Dare to Dream with jobs programme

For more information, please email the QVH Press Office at [email protected]