‘I’ve always wanted to become an occupational therapist’

After working for five years as a therapy practice assistant, Jade Clark enrolled in an apprenticeship to become an occupational therapist.

Jade said: “I’ve always wanted to become an occupational therapist. I started a course years ago but due to personal circumstances at the time, I was unable to complete it. When I saw that I could become an occupational therapist through an apprenticeship I jumped at the chance.

“I actually found that having worked clinically for some time before doing the course, I was able to really make sense of what we were being taught. It goes to show that there is more than one way to get to where you want to go, and actually taking your time and getting hands on experience first could benefit you in the long run.

“The apprenticeship wasn’t easy and at times it was tough finding a work/life balance but now that I’ve graduated I can whole heartedly say that it was worth it. I was living on my own, but fortunately I’ve always been very self-motivated, and received huge support from my workplace mentor and colleagues.

Having graduated in July 2023, Jade has hit the ground running in the acute frailty team and is passionate about reducing barriers to enable patients to participate in their usual occupations, improving their health and wellbeing while they stay in our hospitals.

Jade said: “Occupational therapists are about more than medicine, we offer holistic care as part of a multi-disciplinary team. We know that being in a hospital isn’t always ideal for recovery, particularly for patients living with frailty. Patients will miss their loved ones, their pets, their hobbies and way of life. An occupational therapist will look for ways to improve the experience of a patient’s hospital stay in a way that is meaningful and purposeful to them as an individual.

“Sometimes it’s about bringing a gardener a plant, an artist some pens and paper and a singer a chance to use their voice. I remember a patient who was 104 years old, but certainly didn’t feel it! She coloured every day at home, and despite experiencing delirium was still able to complete this activity with ease, noticeably lighting up when she was colouring, so we made sure to keep her pens and books stocked up, supporting her usual routine and keeping her brain stimulated, aiding her recovery and wellbeing whilst we worked to support her wishes to return home.

“When I visit a patient for the first time I don’t go in with an agenda. We’re completely led by the patient, and we get to know them quite well and build rapport. Understanding what makes each person an individual, the privilege of exploring their rich life history, identity and interests, and using those as strengths in recovery, that makes being an occupational therapist an enormously satisfying role. I’m so proud of myself for working hard, not giving up, and getting the role I always wanted.”