In 2022, the third cohort of apprentice operating department practitioners (ODPs) at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust started their degree courses.

Three years on, Chamara Namalarachchi and Sonia Mechergui have passed their apprenticeships with flying colours, joined our theatre teams, and celebrated their graduation at Rochester Cathedral.

ODPs play an important role in theatre and their clinical training takes place almost entirely in the department, providing high standards of skilled care and support during each phase of a patient’s perioperative care – anaesthetic, surgery and recovery.

Qualified ODPs also work in other areas from education and research to intensive care, and are a vital part of the NHS workforce.

Practice Development Facilitator for Theatres, Princy Noble said “We’re really proud of our newly qualified ODPs! They – and their predecessors from the previous two cohorts – are great role models for career progression.”

She added: “This shows what an exciting opportunity the apprenticeship route into the profession can be. There are 11 apprentice ODPs completing their training at the Trust, and it’s fantastic to see the next generations of professionals progressing their careers and joining our theatre teams.”

Once a colleague qualifies as an ODP they register with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) to become registered practitioners, and can work in anaesthetics, surgery, and post-anaesthetic recovery.

Chamara and Sonia said: “Over the past three years as apprentice ODPs, we have undertaken a demanding period of academic and clinical development. This required sustained commitment, adaptability, and resilience, enabling us to build the knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours necessary for safe and effective practice.

“Throughout our apprenticeship, we received consistent and valuable support, including structured supervision, mentorship, and guidance from colleagues in the multidisciplinary team. This support played a crucial role in our progression and professional confidence.

“Now as registered ODPs, we feel a strong sense of professional pride and responsibility.

“We are thankful to the apprenticeship programme for giving us this opportunity to progress in our careers.”