Meet the Apprentice: Mia Churchill

Mia Churchill, 23, has just graduated from our Hearing Aid Dispenser Apprenticeship and works for Specsavers Audiologists in Peterborough. She tells us about her course and how she has put her learning into practice.
 

Why did you decide to take up the apprenticeship course?

The apprenticeship course offered an avenue into the area of work that I was interested in, allowing me to get stuck in straight away with practical experience in an Audiology clinic. The structure of the course was appealing, as most of my time was spent on the job, gaining the critical expertise that I needed, with several 'block releases' during the year where I spent a week on campus or a week online learning course content. It really worked for me as I was able to earn whilst I was learning.



How has it helped your career so far? Have you been able to put learnings into practice in the job?

I wouldn't be where I am today without my apprenticeship - having the workplace experience from the beginning really helped me settle into my role as a student, but also developing through to now as a fully qualified clinician. I now spend my days in clinic applying knowledge gained through the course in both theoretical and practical aspects - from hearing testing through to wax removal!

What feedback have you had from your company on your apprenticeship?  
 

The course at DMU has instilled a confidence within myself and my abilities - shortly after qualifying I was put forward by my Director onto a leadership course where I've really felt that I'm capable and deserving. I now am a full time Hearing Aid Dispenser / Audiologist as well as Clinical Lead for two stores I work across. I don't think I would have that confidence and ability to give back to my company without my apprenticeship experience.

What’s been the best moment of the course for you?

One of the biggest highlights of my Hearing Aid Audiology Apprenticeship was definitely learning from all of my lecturers - professionals that have first hand experience in all different areas of the industry brought such a valued input and outlook on my studies and how I now conduct myself in my daily work. It has also been great to stay in contact with my cohort, now all spread across the country, we're able to keep up to date and still share stories about each others’ experiences which is so valuable to keep me developing my skills as a healthcare professional.