Mary Ovenden - Aspiring Allies

What influenced your choice of profession?

Studying radiotherapy appealed to me as I’ve always had an interest in cancer and the methods we use to treat it. I liked the idea of getting to know our patients and treating them over several weeks/months, developing a professional and supportive relationship, which I find very rewarding. Radiotherapy combines my love of anatomy, problem solving, and patient interaction. It’s a challenging but rewarding profession.

What do you love about your role?

The main thing that I love about radiotherapy is the ability to develop longstanding relationships with patients. Seeing the same patients five days a week for months, you get to know them and become a big part of their lives. It can be an emotional process for patients and staff, but I feel very privileged to be a small part of a patient’s cancer care journey.

What were your expectations of the profession?

Having no experience in the field, I wasn’t sure what to expect. From my research of the career, I assumed that I would be working with patients diagnosed with cancer and that I would not only be treating them with radiation, but I would also be an emotional support for them.

The main thing that I love about radiotherapy is the ability to develop longstanding relationships with patients.

What’s different about the Apprenticeship route compared to the traditional BSc Degree?

I study at Sheffield Hallam University, but I have most of my lectures online (apart from 2 days a year face-to-face). I have academic weeks that encompass lectures, seminars, and support sessions. When I’m not having my academic weeks, I’m working on set in my placements. I am employed full-time by ESNEFT on a Band 2 salary, increasing in banding each year until I’m qualified. My supervisor and education mentor support my studies, ensuring that I spend time in the relevant departments supporting my modules and coursework.

Why did you choose the Therapeutic Radiography Degree Apprenticeship route?

I’ve worked in healthcare for almost 10 years. I was looking for an opportunity to increase my skill set and career prospects. Being a mature student, I felt that the Degree Apprenticeship route was better suited to me since I’m still employed and have the opportunity to earn a degree simultaneously. I find the apprenticeship route supports my learning style well, I’m a practical learner and find learning on the job more accessible than classroom-based learning which you’re more exposed to in a traditional BSc.

What do you find most challenging doing the apprenticeship?

The thing I’ve found most challenging is managing my workload, both academically and in my career. Putting my mental and physical health first has been essential in overcoming this challenge. Not only is a degree apprenticeship a lot of work, but when dealing with patients it’s important that you are in the best place to provide high-quality care. I like to wind down by going to the gym, going on walks, and spending time with my friends and family. Prioritising the things that are important in my life, helps keep me motivated in my studies and day-to-day work life.

Therapeutic Radiographer

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Inspirational Story