In early December, CHFT welcomed Ofsted for an inspection as an Apprenticeship Employer Provider, under a brand-new assessment framework. The feedback following the inspection demonstrates the positive experiences of our apprentices, and the commitment of colleagues to help people learn, grow and develop during their time with us at CHFT.

The most positive feedback was in the achievements of our apprentices. Ofsted recognised how apprentices make significant progress from their starting points and almost all move on to positive destinations, including paid employment and further study. A very high proportion of apprentices complete their apprenticeship and achieve distinction grades, including those with special educational needs and/or disabilities and those with barriers to learning.

CHFT rated as the expected standard or above in every category which include; safeguarding, inclusion, provision, leadership and governance, and participation and development.

When reviewing what it is like to be a learner at CHFT, Ofsted wrote:

“Apprentices value the supportive, welcoming environment, both in the classroom and during their time on the wards. They quickly develop the practical skills to become effective at work, which supports the development of their confidence and resilience. When apprentices struggle with aspects of their placement, such as when caring for service users at end of life, staff explore apprentices' emotional response and support them to remain and succeed on their placement.

“Apprentices are highly motivated and appreciate the opportunities provided by the trust. They benefit from the option to move directly into paid employment on completion of their apprenticeship, which provides them with a sense of belonging and feeling valued. Apprentices are confident in the knowledge and skills they develop and are ready to progress into permanent roles within the trust. Apprentices gain a range of skills to support them both in the workplace and at home. They enjoy their learning and see the impact they have on their patients.

“Apprentices with special educational needs and/or disabilities benefit from appropriate adaptations to support them to achieve. They appreciate the time taken by staff to understand their needs, provide one-to-one support and allow them time to process information.”

Head of Widening Participation, Becci Beaumont, said: “At the time of inspection we had 86 apprentices here at CHFT. The feedback is a true reflection of our commitment to supporting apprentices through their journey. We consistently get positive feedback from our apprentices about their experiences, especially how much they have felt supported and encouraged by our colleagues. Thank you to everyone who has been involved.”  

You can read the full Ofsted report on their website: Find an Ofsted inspection report