ROYAL Surrey County Hospital has supported a healthcare assistant to become a fully qualified nurse.

Toby Daniel achieved a first class degree in nursing 10 years after he first joined the trust. The 29 year old was initially employed as a healthcare assistant in Accident and Emergency, where his potential was first recognised.

The trust organised for him to complete a two-year foundation degree in health and social care to become an associate practitioner.

He was then seconded by the trust to complete his formal nursing training and achieve his registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

As well as achieving a first-class degree, he also received two awards which recognised his commitment to upholding the values of nursing and excellence in his practice.

Toby said: “Working at the Royal Surrey has provided me with so many amazing opportunities to learn and develop. I am proud to be part of an organisation dedicated not only to high quality patient care but also the development and encouragement of its staff.

“I’m looking forward to my new role and being able to be make even more difference to our patients.”

Deputy director of nursing Jo Embleton said: “Toby’s story illustrates the career progression that is possible for our healthcare assistants. He has embraced every opportunity offered to him by the trust and has excelled. He is a true Royal Surrey star and we are all incredibly proud of all he has achieved.”

The hospital is recruiting for full-time and part-time, permanent and temporary nurses, midwives, health care assistants and patient sitters. Find out more at www.royalsurrey.nhs.uk.