From Apprentice to Staff Nurse: Polly’s Inspiring Journey on Butterfly Ward

 At Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), we believe in nurturing our team at every step of their career — and Polly’s journey is a shining example of where dedication can lead. Starting as a Band 2 Healthcare Support Worker Apprentice, Polly recently achieved her dream of becoming a Registered Nurse on Butterfly Ward. Her story is one of growth, drive, and compassion.

 What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing — and why paediatrics?      
Nursing has always been in me. I remember dressing up as a nurse when I was little, caring for my family in my own playful way. That instinct to care has never gone away. I’ve always worked with children, so paediatrics felt like a natural fit — there’s something so special about being there for children and their families during such important times.

You’ve come so far — tell us a bit about your journey.      
It’s been full of highs and lows, but I’m really proud of how far I’ve come. I’ve never been naturally academic, so studying — especially the written parts — was tough. But I kept going. I had the most incredible support from my colleagues, and I never lost sight of my goal: becoming a nurse on Butterfly Ward.

I started at GOSH as a Band 2 Healthcare Support Worker Apprentice, with no prior medical background. After completing that programme, I became a Band 3 HCA. I applied for the Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship (RNDA) but didn’t get in the first time. I didn’t give up — I reapplied, was accepted, and completed the four-year course while continuing to work on the ward. I qualified in January 2025 and am now a Band 5 Staff Nurse. It honestly still feels surreal.
 

What was your first impression of GOSH?      
It didn’t feel like a typical hospital. It felt warm. Joyful. You could tell straight away that it was full of hope — and that feeling has never changed.

What’s a typical day like for you now?      
Every day is a little different, but I usually start with a handover from the night team. Then I plan my shift, give medications, check observations, administer feeds, and monitor fluid balances. It’s a lot of multitasking, but the heart of the role is making sure our children feel safe, cared for, and — where possible — happy.
 

How has your role changed — and how has that felt for you?      
It’s been a big shift going from a student nurse to managing my own patient load. It’s a completely different kind of responsibility. I’ve grown so much in confidence and skill — it’s shown me how capable I really am.

Is there a moment or patient that’s stayed with you?      
There is. I cared for a patient during their final days. It was emotionally really tough, but it was also a privilege — to be there for them and their family. That experience changed me. It shaped the nurse I am today and reminded me why I do this work. I’ll never forget it.

What’s been the most rewarding part of your journey so far?      
The little moments — when I can make a child laugh or smile, even in hospital. It’s so important for children to still feel like children, to be able to play and have fun even in tough times. It’s also lovely when families come back to visit after treatment — seeing how well they’re doing means everything.

How do you take care of yourself outside of work?      
Spending time with my friends and family really helps me recharge. I love being in nature — forest walks with my dog or trips to the beach. It clears my head and brings me a sense of peace.

What’s next for you — any dreams or goals?      
I’d love to join the apprenticeship or student practice facilitator team one day. I know how much that support meant to me during my journey — and I’d love to give that same encouragement to others starting out. It would be amazing to help guide the next generation of nurses.