NHS Forth Valley is celebrating the 10th anniversary of its Modern Apprenticeship programme, marking a decade of helping people develop skills, gain qualifications and build rewarding careers while supporting local healthcare services.

Since the programme was launched, apprentices have joined teams across the organisation in a wide variety of roles, combining practical experience with learning and development opportunities. Many have gone on to establish long-term careers within NHS Forth Valley, progressing into specialist, clinical and technical roles while continuing to make a difference to patients, colleagues and communities across the region.

To celebrate the milestone, NHS Forth Valley caught up with three former apprentices whose journeys demonstrate the lasting impact of the programme.

Almost a decade after joining NHS Forth Valley as a Modern Apprentice, Jamie Dickson now works as a Simulation Technician at the Scottish Centre for Simulation and Clinical Human Factors at Forth Valley Royal Hospital.

Jamie said the programme showed him the wide range of opportunities available within the NHS and helped build confidence and communication skills that have supported him throughout his career.

“Finding out how folk got on and where they ended up was eye-opening and a really great showcase of what a modern apprenticeship can lead to.”

Asked what has kept him at NHS Forth Valley, Jamie said: “My job has kept me here. I love it. It’s genuinely one of the best things in the world to come into work and enjoy it the way I do.”

Emma Sloss began her NHS journey through a Modern Apprenticeship and now works as a Healthcare Support Worker with NHS Forth Valley’s Children’s Community Nursing Service.

Emma said the programme provided valuable learning opportunities alongside strong support from colleagues, helping her develop the skills and experience needed to progress her career.

“The support I received from both my assessor and line manager played a huge part in helping me succeed.”

Reflecting on the impact the apprenticeship had on her career, she added: “Completing my apprenticeship helped give me the knowledge and skills which have led me to where I am today.”

Aimee Keith joined NHS Forth Valley as a 17-year-old Modern Apprentice and now works as a Technical Analyst within NHS Forth Valley’s eHealth team.

Since completing her apprenticeship, Aimee has progressed through several roles in digital services while continuing her professional development.

She believes the confidence she gained during her apprenticeship was one of its most valuable benefits. She explained “When I first started, I was quite an anxious person and even answering the phone felt daunting. With the support and encouragement of my colleagues, my confidence grew enormously.”

Aimee is keen to encourage others to consider an apprenticeship, adding: “The apprenticeship taught me that you don’t need to know everything from day one. Being willing to learn, ask questions and challenge yourself can take you a long way.”

Noelle Mackay, NHS Forth Valley’s Employability Manager, said: “Over the last 10 years, NHS Forth Valley’s Modern Apprenticeship programme has helped many young people gain valuable qualifications, develop practical skills and build successful careers across a wide range of health services.

“The experiences of Jamie, Emma and Aimee demonstrate how apprenticeships can help people build confidence and progress into rewarding careers across NHS Forth Valley and beyond.

“As NHS Forth Valley celebrates this important anniversary, it is also recognising the contribution of the many local managers, mentors, assessors and colleagues who have supported apprentices throughout their careers and helped nurture the next generation of talent.

“Looking ahead, NHS Forth Valley remains committed to creating opportunities for future apprentices to learn, develop and build successful careers within the NHS.”