On Our Mind

Posted on 25 Apr 2024

Embarking on my internship at Nottinghamshire Healthcare was a whirlwind of emotions. Anxiety, excitement, and uncertainty filled my mind as I stepped into the world of Learning, Culture and Organisational Development (LCOD). Armed with little knowledge about my department's workings and my colleagues, I entered this new chapter with eagerness to learn and contribute.

The first day was a mix of nerves and excitement, but meeting my supervisor, Marissa, brought a sense of reassurance. As fate would have it, my arrival coincided with the Admin Development Programme, which became the focal point of my internship journey. This immersive experience provided insight into the process of program development and adapting the Google Venture sprint methodology to healthcare practices. Marissa's analogy of the sprint as a funnel, from idea generation to refinement, elucidated the methodology's intricacies.

My internship centred around crafting a report on the Admin Development Programme. Utilising various theories and models such as SWOT analysis, Bloom’s Taxonomy, and Rolfe’s reflective model. Interviews with key stakeholders provided invaluable perspectives, highlighting the application of sprint methodology in different contexts.

Beyond the report, I lent a hand in coordinating aspects of the Admin Development Programme, from room bookings to communications planning. This exposed me to new challenges, prompting me to embrace the importance of seeking guidance and support when navigating unfamiliar territory.

A significant aspect of my internship was my involvement with the Peer Support team. Drawing from my own experiences with mental health, this role resonated deeply with me. It underscored the importance of human connection and empathy in supporting others through shared experiences.

Throughout my journey, I encountered unfamiliar concepts like quality assurance and honed essential skills through workshops on time management, stress management, and professional writing. These sessions provided practical tools and insights applicable to both my internship and academic endeavours.

Participating in the People and Development Day festivities, like the escape room, fostered team camaraderie and added a touch of fun to the learning experience. Additionally, engaging with the Staff Engagement Roadshow broadened my understanding of LCOD's mission to provide development opportunities for staff at all levels.

Reflecting on my internship, I've witnessed personal growth in confidence and teamwork skills. My understanding of LCOD's diverse initiatives, from apprenticeships to peer support, has deepened. I've forged meaningful connections and gained invaluable insights into the workings of the NHS.

As I bid farewell to Nottinghamshire Healthcare, I do so with gratitude for the enriching experience and for my final year at Nottingham Trent University as well. To future interns, I wholeheartedly recommend seizing the opportunity to explore the myriad facets of the NHS and contribute to the invaluable work of LCOD. As the inaugural intern for the People Development team, I take pride in the journey I've undertaken and the connections I've forged.

Luxmetha Manoharan, Learning, Culture and Organisational Development Intern.

 

The Trust is proud to support work experience programmes and can offer placements between 1 and 5 days across a range of different professions and environments. If you would like to find out more, visit the Care4Notts website, which includes a directory of work experience offers for all health and social care partners across Nottinghamshire.

View our latest vacancies, along with our fabulous staff benefits and development opportunities on our recruitment website. Join #TeamNottsHC and help make a difference!