Paediatric Community Dietitian Apprentice

What are your main responsibilities in this role? 

I give specialist advice, education and support to paediatric patients with our multi-disciplinary team. I carry out regular paediatric community clinics and I help to deliver learning in different topics such as cow’s milk protein allergy. 

I provide dietetic care plans for paediatric patients with a variety of different conditions including faltering growth and malnutrition, cow's milk protein and other allergies, selective eating and complex obesity. 

How did you start out in your apprenticeship role? 

I was working as a dietetic assistant practitioner when I applied for this MSc apprenticeship opportunity as I had the necessary undergraduate qualification in Human Nutrition to apply. 

There is now an undergraduate apprenticeship available too. 

What entry-level jobs should someone pursue if they are looking to follow a similar career trajectory? 

Dietetic Assistant Practitioner. 

What skills are most important in your job? 

It is important to be organised and have good time management skills. You also need to commit to doing additional work in the evenings and weekends to meet the coursework deadlines. 

Most importantly, you need to have a strong interest in the role. 

What are the biggest challenges you face in your role? 

Managing your time efficiently between a demanding job role and the responsibilities of meeting coursework deadlines and attending lectures.  

What are the biggest rewards in your role? 

I like having the ability to apply and consolidate the things learnt in my role straightaway. 

Top tips for others thinking about beginning an apprenticeship? 

Ensure you brush up on your time management skills, so you can plan and manage your time well to keep ahead. 

Don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions and be honest about what stage you are at in your learning so you are able to focus on those areas that need development. 

Your next step on your career pathway? 

To continue my learning and develop my skills within the paediatric community dietetic role.