Rather than following the traditional route of studying full-time at university before joining the NHS, Emily earned her midwifery qualification through an apprenticeship. This allowed her to combine paid employment at the Trust with university study and hands-on clinical experience.
She qualified in June 2026, achieving a lifelong ambition after taking a different route into the profession.
Emily had originally begun studying midwifery in 2015 but left her university course after falling pregnant. She later joined DBTH as a Service Assistant before becoming a Maternity Support Worker in 2019, where her interest in pursuing a career in midwifery continued to grow.
While working in the role, a colleague told her about the midwifery apprenticeship offered through the University of Huddersfield, giving her the opportunity to pursue her ambition while remaining in work.
Emily said: “It was nerve-wracking at first. You don’t know what you’re going into.
“Looking back now, I’m so glad I took the opportunity. The apprenticeship has given me the chance to achieve my dream while gaining invaluable experience alongside a fantastic team.”
To celebrate her achievement, Emily was presented with a bouquet of flowers by Karen Jessop, Chief Nurse, Lois Mellor, Director of Midwifery, Sam Whalley, Labour Ward Manager, and Alexandra Cartwright, Matron.
Lois Mellor, Director of Midwifery at DBTH, said: “As the first apprentice midwife at DBTH, Emily truly is a trailblazer.
“We are incredibly proud of what she has achieved. Her success demonstrates the opportunities apprenticeships can offer and we’re delighted she is continuing her career with us as a newly qualified midwife.”
The midwifery apprenticeship enables aspiring midwives to earn while they learn, combining academic study with practical experience to develop the knowledge and skills needed to provide high-quality care for women, babies and families.
Emily now joins the Trust as a Newly Qualified Midwife, continuing her career caring for local families across Doncaster and Bassetlaw.
