From Apprentice to Qualified Occupational Therapist: Luke’s inspiring OT Apprenticeship journey

As part of National Apprenticeship Week 2026, we are proud to shine a spotlight on the remarkable achievements of our Occupational Therapy Degree Apprentices - individuals who balance study, work, and personal commitments to build the Skills for Life that shape their future careers.

Today, we celebrate Luke Reynolds, whose dedication, resilience, and passion for helping others have led him to fulfil a long held ambition: becoming a qualified Occupational Therapist.

A pathway that suited his learning style

Luke joined the University in 2024 after completing a foundation degree at another institution. With extensive experience working in the NHS, he was eager to progress further but needed a route that supported his preferred learning style. The Occupational Therapy Degree Apprenticeship (OTDA) offered exactly that - an opportunity to develop professionally while continuing to earn, learn, and grow within the workplace.

“It was the perfect way for me to learn and progress on the job,” Luke recalls. “It suited how I learn best.”

Gaining experience across diverse OT practice areas

One of the most transformative aspects of the apprenticeship for Luke was the exposure to a wide range of practice areas. His placements spanned Community Occupational Therapy, Palliative Care, and other specialist settings, each giving him new insights into the breadth of OT practice.

“It allowed me to explore different areas within Occupational Therapy, gaining knowledge across different specialisms, enabling me to apply these skills directly into both my workplace role and my other placements.”

The blend of academic learning and real world practice proved essential. While placements strengthened his practical OT skills, university teaching provided vital theoretical foundations.

“The theory side gave me the foundations of OT. It helped me understand holistic, person-centred practice - considering the individual, the occupations important to them, and their environment.”

Building confidence, skills, and professional identity

Like many apprentices, Luke faced early challenges in academic writing and clinical confidence. But with consistent support from both his workplace and the University, he saw this confidence grow steadily throughout the programme.

“As an apprentice, my confidence around written work and clinical work was initially low. But the apprenticeship helped me build confidence in both and made sure I was ready to move into practice as a fully qualified Occupational Therapist.”

Luke recently qualified and is now working as a Rotational Occupational Therapist, a milestone achievement. His first rotations have already brought new opportunities, including stepping into the highly specialist environment of an Intensive Care Unit, an exciting new challenge within his OT career relating to assisting patients with recovery following intubation and increasing their strength.

A journey that paid off

Looking back, Luke admits he was initially nervous about starting the apprenticeship. But his journey, from self doubt to qualification, has shaped not just his career, but his belief in himself.

“I was always apprehensive to start the OT Apprenticeship, but it gave me confidence and new knowledge that I will always be grateful for.”

Above all, Luke extends his heartfelt thanks to the University and to his NHS colleagues who supported him from start to finish.

“Thank you, University of Essex, for helping me to fulfil my dream role in the NHS!”