AGS Alumni | Sophie Burns
Name: Sophie Burns
Left Acklam Grange: 2012
Current position: Advanced Clinical Practitioner in Palliative Radiotherapy
Current Employer: James Cook University Hospital
What was your experience at Acklam Grange like?
Very enjoyable. Supportive and friendly learning environment!
Do you have a fond memory that you would like to share?
Probably favourite memory was having the opportunity to go to Africa – as part of the Meserani Project -2013. Absolutely fantastic experience and will never forget the memories made during those 3 weeks.
What person, class or experience most influenced you?
My form tutor for 5 years was Mrs Wilson- really supportive and encouraging. Gave me confidence that I didn’t have in myself!
How did your education at AGS prepare you for your career?
Gave me the necessary GCSEs to then go on to do my A Levels at Prior Pursglove College. Then I went to pursue a career in Radiotherapy and Oncology.
What has your career path been like? How did you get to where you are?
From leaving AGS, I went to Prior Pursglove College and completed my A-Levels. Then I went to Birmingham City University to study Radiotherapy and Oncology for 3 years. From then I qualified as a band 5 therapeutic radiographer. I then progressed to a band 6 – Senior Radiographer. Then an opportunity to become an Advanced Clinical Practitioner in Palliative Radiotherapy came. I was successful and I am just about to complete my Masters degree in Advanced Clinical Practice, at Teesside University. I’m very honoured and excited to be a qualified ACP, to make a difference to palliative patients going through radiotherapy treatment and needing support.
What do you enjoy about your job?
The best thing about my job is working with patients and being in a hands-on, patient facing role. I love how every day can be different and enjoy challenges such as doing technical radiotherapy planning to helping patients get extra support by successfully signposting/referring to the wider oncology MDT and support services available.
What skills have served you well in your career?
Having excellent communication skills, technical IT skills, interpersonal skills.
What advice would you give to current Acklam Grange students about their future?
Thinking of a career can be very confusing and daunting. It’s difficult if you don’t know what you want to do. And that’s okay! You are young and have plenty of time to work that out. My best advice is that- if there is a field or job you are particularly interested in. Get in touch to organise some work experience. Or if you are completely unsure- go to careers fairs. There are lots of opportunities out there! You will have to step out of your comfort zone which is scary, but in the long run, it will be the best thing you will ever do. Believe in yourself and work hard!
If you’re a former student of Acklam Grange School and want to share your story, get in touch via the details below.
Miss S Winter
Careers Advisor
01642 277700
winter.s@acklamgrange.org.uk