Ellen Mather

Ellen is a Learning Disability Nurse apprentice who has progressed through the apprenticeship route while balancing work, study, and family life. With years of experience supporting people with a learning disability, she chose this pathway as a practical and achievable way to reach her goal of becoming a registered nurse.

What was it about this apprenticeship course that interested you? 

I have wanted to become a Learning Disability Nurse for many years, and when the opportunity arose to apply for the Trainee Nurse Associate apprenticeship, I knew it was the right step. Completing that programme made progressing to the Learning Disability Nurse apprenticeship feel like a natural continuation of my journey. 

I’ve had the privilege of supporting people with a learning disability in a variety of roles, and those experiences have shaped my passion, motivation, and commitment to the field. This apprenticeship offered a clear, accessible pathway to finally achieving my long‑term goal. 

Why did you choose a degree apprenticeship rather than a traditional undergraduate degree? 

Being a single mum of two girls, I needed a way to study while still earning an income to support my family and maintain our home. The degree apprenticeship allowed me to train as a nurse while continuing to work, giving me the balance I needed. It also offered a guaranteed position, providing long‑term security for me and my children. 

What skills did you want to develop by joining this apprenticeship course? 

I wanted to strengthen my academic skills so I could understand and apply evidence‑based practice confidently in my role. I also aimed to develop my clinical skills, including assessment, decision‑making, and safe intervention. 

The apprenticeship has given me the opportunity to gain both knowledge and hands‑on experience, supporting my development into a safe and competent Learning Disability Nurse. Having a variety of placements has allowed me to explore different areas of practice and build valuable professional networks. 

How has the apprenticeship helped you in your work? 

Completing the apprenticeship has allowed me to put evidence‑based practice into action and reflect more deeply on my clinical decision‑making. I now approach situations with a clearer understanding of why certain interventions are appropriate and how to justify my decisions professionally. It has improved my communication skills, confidence and working within and multidisciplinary team to provide quality care for the individuals we support.  

How has the apprenticeship benefitted you personally? 

I have built on my personal resilience and emotional intelligence. I’ve proven to myself that I can manage challenges and achieve through hard work. Receiving feedback and doing well in my assignments and placements has shown me how far I’ve come. I feel more confident as a developing nurse, while also recognising the need to keep learning and to ask for support when I need it. 

What changes have you made to the way you do things at work? 

I have become more reflective in my practice. I take more time to consider the evidence behind my decisions, ensuring that the people I support are at the centre of every intervention. I also feel more confident in advocating for individuals with a learning disability and promoting person‑centred care. As it is a new role, I am learning new skills every day, such as completing a variety of assessment tools. 

What have you found the most interesting or stimulating? 

I found my literature review both challenging and interesting. Choosing a contemporary issue that I am passionate about made the research process meaningful and helped me understand how evidence can directly influence the way I support people with a learning disability and their carers. This has taught me to embrace change and inspires me to become a nurse who uses research and reflection to drive improvements in practice. 

What is the most important thing you have learned? 

The most important thing I have learned is the value of reflection, change, evidence‑based practice, and innovation in becoming a safe and competent nurse. I have also learned the importance of understanding and following the NMC Code and how it guides my professional behaviour and accountability. It has helped me recognise my responsibilities and the standards expected of me as a registered nurse.