Leon is a first-year Diagnostic Radiography apprentice at Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, he is currently studying a BSc (Hons) Diagnostic Radiography higher and degree apprenticeship course at Sheffield Hallam University, a partner of the South Yorkshire Institute of Technology.

“My lecturers are great and they make learning enjoyable. The course supports me to develop my previous skill set aided with the knowledge that is taught at a higher level qualification.

“Sheffield Hallam has a great support system in place. Having dyslexia can be daunting at times, but the support has been amazing.

“I’m the first within my imaging department to be accepted onto an apprenticeship. I have helped support the Trust and employees within the organisation.

“My day-to-day role involves, conducting exposure quality assurance on x-ray machines, supporting x-ray examinations, and aiding radiographers and fellow students. I ensure all images are checked and forms are analysed before I conduct an x-ray. 

“The role also involves general housekeeping, meeting and greeting patients, maintaining professionalism, and being respectful at all times. Currently, I have been able to shadow in other imaging departments like CT, MRI, and Ultrasound.

“I can apply the knowledge and technical terms I have learned with confidence when describing pathologies seen on x-ray images when communicating with Radiographers and Radiologists. 

“At times you might struggle, but the support is easy to access at Sheffield Hallam and in the workplace. You have got to put the work in, when you feel you are struggling, remember why you’re doing the course and what your goals are.

“My career ambition is to become a Reporting Radiographer.”