Dan James is an apprentice Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) at Birmingham City University (BCU). His journey through the degree apprenticeship program has been one of personal growth, skill development, and overcoming academic challenges. Encouraging others to take the leap, he offers simple yet powerful advice: “Just go for it and just do it, and you’ll have a good life.” His experience has not only shaped his career but also reinforced his dedication to the healthcare sector and his desire to make a difference.
One of Dan’s proudest achievements during his apprenticeship has been his academic progress. Initially uncertain about his abilities, he was surprised by how well he adapted to essay writing and the strong grades he achieved. “I’ve come on quite well with the essay writing, and I’ve got some pretty good grades overall, which I was quite surprised at actually.” This success has boosted his confidence and solidified his commitment to lifelong learning.
Through the apprenticeship, Dan has developed a wide range of essential clinical skills. These practical experiences have equipped him to handle real-world medical situations, enhancing his ability to contribute effectively to patient care. “During the apprenticeship, it’s given me the chance to learn cannulation, catheterisation, learn airway management, and various other things.” His hands-on learning has been an invaluable part of his training.
Support from both his employer and BCU has played a crucial role in his journey. His employer provided opportunities for him to gain experience in areas outside his usual responsibilities, allowing him to broaden his understanding of hospital operations. “During the apprenticeship, my employer supported me by helping me go to areas that I wouldn’t normally work in and getting greater exposure throughout the hospital on working life.”
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Meanwhile, BCU has been instrumental in offering academic support, particularly in helping him navigate his dyslexia. “During my degree apprenticeship, the university helped me with my dyslexia, and through it, I was given Disability Support Statement (DSS) support, and their team is brilliant.” This assistance has ensured that Dan can thrive in his studies without unnecessary barriers.
Dan credits the portfolio route for allowing him to pursue the ODP apprenticeship, particularly as someone who struggled academically in the past. “I was never very academic earlier on in life, but now later on in life, it gave me the chance to top up UCAS points and be able to apply for it.” This pathway has offered him the flexibility he needed to overcome past challenges and progress toward his current success.
His motivation to undertake the apprenticeship stems from a deeply personal experience—the passing of his friend, Steve. At Steve’s funeral, Dan and others learned of his many accomplishments, which had never been widely shared. This realisation sparked a resolve within Dan: “Never give up, and everybody should be a bit more Steve.” His friend’s legacy continues to inspire him to achieve more and encourage others to embrace their potential.
Dan now works at University Hospitals Plymouth as an ODP apprentice, focusing on anaesthetics. He reflects on his journey with gratitude, knowing that the apprenticeship has provided him with skills, support, and career prospects that he once thought unattainable. His advice to those considering the program remains unwavering: “If you’re thinking about it, just do it, just apply for it, and help the NHS out.”
