Mansfield teen starts work as King's Mill Hospital's first ever photography apprentice

Lewis Halfpenny joined Sherwood Forest Hospitals NHS Trust which operates the Sutton hospital, as an apprentice after finishing school this year.

He will be the trust’s first ever Medical Photographer Apprentice.

He said: “The role can be so varied, from medical photography one day to shooting videos across our hospitals for different campaigns the next.”

Lewis already had an interest in photography but in his new role Lewis will develop his skills by taking photographs of patients and hospital events and has even turned his hand to taking videos and editing them.

Lewis, who studied at Quarrydale Academy in Sutton, works at the hospital four days of the week and spends one of the days studying towards gaining a qualification, which he should achieve in 15 months.

Lewis said: “I did work experience at the trust last year and really enjoyed my time with the team, so I was excited when the opportunity came up to take on a full-time role doing what I love, especially as it will help me to get a qualification too.

“I’m enjoying the opportunities so far and the hands-on experience I’m getting.

“I’m also really well supported by the trust to get my qualification.

“When I finish my apprenticeship, I hope to be able to secure a permanent position at the trust.”

The trust offers apprenticeships across its three hospitals in a range of roles and is fully supported by an internal education programme to help apprentices gain a qualification at the same time as working.

Debbie Morris, team leader for learning and development Sherwood Forest Hospitals said: “Lewis’ story demonstrates the importance and association between work experience and securing a role as an apprentice.

“At Sherwood Forest Hospitals we have people undertaking apprenticeships from Level 2 up to Level 6 degree level by staff in a variety of roles in various departments including Human

Resources, Finance, Theatres, IT, Medical Equipment Management Department and Cardiorespiratory, to name a few.

“We have a diverse range of apprenticeships available for both new apprentices and existing members of staff.”