Whitney Burgher
Occupational Therapy Apprentice, Lifelong Learning and Continuous Professional Development
Enfield is a diverse community reflected in its organisational structure, creating opportunities for people from all walks of life to thrive and flourish. I have gained working experience in housing, health, adult and social care services throughout my employment with Enfield Council and can attest to the developmental prospects accessible to those who are willing to be bold and take responsibility for further learning.
I began my Occupational Therapy Apprenticeship (OTA) journey within the Integrated Learning Disability Service (ILDS), where I received developmental support through supervision and from the service as a whole. During my transition to Occupational Therapy, familiarising myself with the Degree Apprenticeship Standards, the Royal College of Occupational Therapy (RCOT) and Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Standards was imperative for embodying the role of the OT, who are passionate about enhancing quality of life.
The framework for OT entails improving function through meaningful occupation or activities, supported by the OT process of information gathering and analysis through assessment, intervention and evaluation. Reflections are actively encouraged and routinely practiced as part of OT clinical procedures. Considering my prior roles, it certainly lacked structured and consistent reflective methods, which is imperative for enabling a higher quality of care and improving professional practice.
I especially enjoyed the academic aspect of the apprenticeship, as it imparted theoretical insight into the knowledge and understanding required for professional practice, further bolstered by regular placement in various OT settings. This synergy provided contextual nuance that made theory come alive in practical ways. New awareness also enables better flexibility in adapting to improved ways of working. As an OTA, it was a formative three years of work and study. However, it has shaped me in ways I am happy and grateful for. I love OT for its promise of lifelong learning. I will never get bored.
The educational experience and commitment to achieving my goals enabled resilience and scope for continuous professional development (CPD) through training, independent research, evidence based practices, placements, supervision and reflective practice. Receiving relevant support from my university tutors and the apprenticeship learning and development team at Enfield Council enabled me to complete my studies.
The Principal OT was particularly invaluable in providing mentorship for further progression, following an opportunity to shadow her for the Leadership and Autonomous Practice module during my final year. Studying leadership theory and observing her in practice inspired me to embrace potential future prospects for individual and professional growth, in ways that reflect my own values, that may also motivate others.
I have recently presented to students for the second time with a senior OT about career progression into Occupational Therapy from my perspective as an OTA, as I do believe that degree apprenticeships are a viable option to gain valuable knowledge and experience through work and study. During OT week, I also presented a case study to my colleagues about my time on placement in an acute hospital setting, which has informed my current role. Upon reflection, I enjoy presenting as it builds competence and confidence by challenging myself to venture outside my introverted comfort zone. It is also a skill I honed during my degree apprenticeship, as the cohort was expected to deliver frequent individual and group presentations. This also meant completing regular research to acquire current evidence informed information to improve knowledge and understanding of OT theory.
I am currently with the Discharge to Assess Team (D2A), transitioning into practice as a newly qualified OT and thoroughly enjoying the learning process, including the shift to an adult social care approach. This allows CPD and understanding a new aspect of the vast role of Occupational Therapy. Being person centred, strengths based and promoting independence through meaningful occupations allows OT’s to work together with colleagues and clients to find solutions that empowers individuals and communities.
I am fervently optimistic for all the possibilities that await me as an OT.