A 64-year-old father-of-five has embarked on a new career as a registered nurse at Southmead Hospital in Bristol, demonstrating that it is never too late to pursue a lifelong ambition. John Adesoye, who moved to the UK in 2013 from Greece, where he worked as an electronics technician, recently graduated from the University of the West of England (UWE) after completing a degree apprenticeship.
Mr Adesoye's journey into nursing began in 2014 when he took on a role as a healthcare assistant at Southmead Hospital. His decision to transition into healthcare was motivated by a profound desire to care for people. He explained that just as he found satisfaction in repairing broken electronic devices, witnessing patients recover brings him immense joy and fulfilment in his current profession.
During his degree apprenticeship, Mr Adesoye gained extensive experience across various hospital departments, including cardiology, Accident & Emergency, and intensive care units. This comprehensive exposure prepared him for the diverse challenges of nursing. He spent one day a week studying at UWE's Glenside campus in Fishponds, with the remainder of his week dedicated to practical work at Southmead Hospital.
The dedication shown by Mr Adesoye has been widely praised. Jacqui Caskey and Caroline Bromwich, who co-led the registered nurse degree apprenticeship programme, highlighted the significant commitment required from apprentices, who often juggle their studies with busy personal lives and family responsibilities. Professor Steve Hams, Chief Nursing Officer at Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, expressed the team's immense pride in Mr Adesoye, calling his story a powerful inspiration.
Mr Adesoye's achievement underscores the opportunities available for individuals seeking career changes later in life, particularly within the NHS. With an ageing population and ongoing workforce challenges, the NHS continues to value experienced individuals from diverse backgrounds who are committed to patient care. Mr Adesoye has also indicated an interest in pursuing a Master's level qualification, further demonstrating his commitment to continuous professional development.