Melissa Moyo - FdSc Nursing Associate
We spoke to Melissa Moyo, a Year 2 Nursing Associate Apprentice, to find out how balancing clinical practice, university study, and student leadership has shaped not just her career but her confidence, and why she believes the journey itself is just as valuable as the qualification.
We asked Melissa...
What does a typical week look like for you in terms of lectures, independent study, and other commitments?
Each week looks slightly different, but as an apprentice, my schedule mainly consists of 30 hours of clinical practice and 7.5 hours of university study. My university day is usually on a Friday, when we attend lectures, clinical skills sessions, and other teaching activities. There are also periods, such as block weeks, when we attend university Monday to Friday at the start of a new module.
I spend the majority of my time in practice, which allows me to continuously apply theory to real patient care, while also developing professionally and personally. Alongside this, I dedicate time to independent study, portfolio work, and wider student leadership activities, including student representation and initiatives aimed at improving the student experience.
Although balancing work, university, and additional commitments can be demanding at times, I genuinely feel that everything works together towards my growth. Each aspect of the programme contributes to my development not only as a future nursing associate but also as a more confident, resilient and purposeful person.
What made you want to pursue a programme in this area?
I was drawn to the Nursing Associate programme because it represented an opportunity for both professional and personal growth. At the time, I worked briefly as a Healthcare Assistant and had developed a genuine passion for patient care, but I knew I wanted to deepen my knowledge, expand my skills and take on a more active role within healthcare.
For me, the programme has become much more than a qualification; it has been a journey of growth, purpose, and discovery of the impact I can have both in practice and within the wider student community.
Reflecting on your time in the course so far, how have you found the overall experience?
Reflecting on my time in the course so far, I can honestly say it has been one of the most rewarding and transformative experiences of my life. The programme has challenged me academically, professionally and personally, while also helping me grow in confidence, resilience and leadership.
One of the things I value most is the balance between university learning and clinical practice. Being able to apply theory directly to patient care has made my learning feel purposeful and meaningful. I have also really appreciated the supportive relationships I have built with peers, lecturers and colleagues throughout the journey.
Beyond developing clinical skills, the programme has also given me opportunities to contribute to the wider student experience through student representation, leadership activities, and initiatives that support other students. Looking back so far, I feel proud not only of how much I have learned but also of the positive impact I have made along the way.
How would you describe the support you’ve received from the university?
I would describe the support I’ve received from the university as encouraging, approachable and genuinely student-focused. Throughout the programme, I’ve felt supported not only academically, but also personally and professionally. The lecturers and programme team have consistently created an environment where students feel listened to and encouraged to grow.
I’ve particularly appreciated the opportunities to contribute beyond the classroom through student representation, leadership activities and wider university initiatives focused on improving the student experience. As an apprentice balancing work, university and family life, having that understanding and support has made a significant difference. The university has helped me build confidence, develop my voice, and recognise that students can play an active role in shaping positive change in healthcare education.
What has been your proudest achievement during your studies so far?
One of my proudest achievements during my studies has been seeing the positive impact that my contributions have had on other students and the patients we care for. As a student representative and Student Nursing Associate apprentice, I’ve had opportunities not only to support my own learning but also to create initiatives and resources to improve the student and patient experience.
This has included developing practical learning resources for apprentices, contributing to discussions around inclusion and student support, and speaking at the university council to represent the apprenticeship perspective. Seeing these ideas
Positively received and genuinely helping others has been incredibly meaningful to me. I am also very proud that this work has been recognised with several awards throughout my journey so far.
These include being named Student Representative of the Year within the School of Health and Society, receiving an NHS England Chief Nursing Officer Student Excellence Award, and being recognised at the Student Nursing Times Awards 2026, where I won awards for Outstanding Contribution to Diversity and Inclusion and Outstanding Contribution to Student Affairs.
I’ve also been honoured with several awards in practice. More than the awards themselves, I am proud that the work behind them came from listening to others, trying to make a positive difference, and being supported throughout the journey.
What advice would you give to someone considering studying this course or attending university?
My advice would be to believe in yourself and not underestimate what you are capable of achieving. The course can feel challenging at times, especially when balancing placements, university, work and personal responsibilities, but it is also incredibly rewarding and full of opportunities for growth.
I would encourage prospective students to fully embrace both the academic and practical sides of the programme, ask questions, seek support when needed and make the most of opportunities beyond the classroom. Some of the most valuable experiences I’ve had have come from getting involved in student representation, leadership activities and initiatives aimed at improving the student experience.
Most importantly, remember that you do not have to have everything figured out from the beginning. Growth happens throughout the journey, and with consistency, support and self-belief, you may surprise yourself with what you are capable of achieving.
