How a hospital placement led to a new career

When Kelly Ochonogor became the first student to take a T-Level placement at Medway Maritime Hospital, she did not realise it would lead to a new career.

Previously pursuing a clinical psychology career while studying at MidKent College, Ochonogor's plans changed when she shadowed staff working in the operating theatre.

Discovering the operating department practitioner (ODP) role, she said the teamwork and "level of patient support involved" made her realise it was the role for her.

Reflecting on her career during National Apprenticeship Week, she said: "This apprenticeship has opened so many doors for me. I've always been quite shy, but this environment has pushed me out of my comfort zone."

ODPs are vital members of the operating theatre team, combining technical skill, clinical knowledge and compassionate care to keep patients safe before, during and after surgery.

After finishing college Ochonogor worked at the hospital as a clinical support worker for a year to gain more clinical experience before applying for a three-year ODP apprenticeship.

Combining academic study with hands‑on experience, Kelly now learns in a clinical environment working alongside anaesthetists, surgeons and theatre teams to help deliver safe, high‑quality care at every step of a patient's surgical journey.

The 21-year-old, from Chatham, said: "Each placement has helped me grow in confidence, and seeing theory come to life in practice has been incredibly rewarding.

"I feel like I'm growing into the best version of myself, and also put the opportunity and growth I have experienced so far down to my faith."

Lucy Mason, the hospital's work-based learning manager, said: "Kelly's journey demonstrates the important role apprenticeships play in creating accessible routes into clinical careers and strengthening our future NHS workforce."

Looking ahead to when she completes her apprenticeship in June 2028, Ochonogor says: "I hope to be a confident, experienced ODP, maybe even specialising or pursuing further studies."

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