Just what the doctor ordered

Frome Medical Practice, who appointed its first ever apprentice to the practice just over 18 months ago, has been so impressed with the success of the scheme that the practice has now appointed Verity Lawrence as their second apprentice.

Practice manager of Frome Medical Practice, Karen Creffield, says she is delighted to have been able to offer Verity the post and is also quick to acknowledge the help and support that has been offered to the practice by Somerset Skills and Learning. 

“They have been brilliant,” says Karen. “An apprenticeship is something that I would certainly encourage other local employers to look at. Somerset Skills and Learning have helped make the whole process so easy and positive. Both employer and apprentice are the winners.”

Verity Lawrence has lived in Frome all of her life, attending Trinity, Oakfield and Frome Community College where she studied for her A-levels. It was whilst studying health and social care at the college that Verity became interested in possibly working in the health sector. She says that she greatly enjoyed working for other local employers, but when she was offered the chance of an apprenticeship at the Frome Medical Practice, she was extremely keen to snap up that opportunity.

“It is just great to have the chance to be properly trained at what I do,” explains Verity. “I am learning skills that will stand me in good stead for my future employment. The doctors and all of the staff here have been very friendly and supportive of me and perhaps the most important thing that I have gained are the people skills that are so necessary in working in a busy GP practice.”

Employer engagement manager at Somerset Skills and Learning, Dave West, says he is equally delighted that the practice decided to carry on with the apprenticeship scheme.

He said, “As the training provider for Verity, it is excellent news that one of the area’s larger employers has found the apprenticeship scheme so worthwhile, that they are continuing with the project. The apprenticeship scheme not only provides employers with the skills that their business needs, but equally importantly provides genuine and real opportunities for people in our community.”

Below: Verity Lawrence and Karen Creffield at the Frome Medical Practice.