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From horses to healthcare: An unconventional career journey

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Ipswich.co.uk Logomark in a circle

Ipswich's only independent news website

We publish the stories that matter and champion everything that's good about our town – without the ads, popups or tracking

Harriet Aitchison, 35, has swapped her riding boots for scrubs in a career change that's taken her from the stables to the wards of Ipswich Hospital.

What's happening: The former equine groomer and chef is now on track to become a radiographer, thanks to an NHS apprenticeship scheme.

Key points:

"I was taking a break as I wasn't sure what I wanted to do," she said. "I thought why not explore the idea of the NHS."

From ponies to patients: Harriet's days were filled with grooming horses and working as a pub chef before her career switch.

Healthcare wasn't on her radar until her sister, a Macmillan nurse at Ipswich Hospital, spotted a poster advertising the Training Academy.

Harriet Aitchison riding a horse
Harriet used to work as an equine groomer before switching careersRichard Weller-PoleyRichard Weller-Poley Photography

The apprenticeship route: Aitchison secured an apprenticeship role after completing the Training Academy. "I applied for a role as an apprentice assistant practitioner in diagnostic imaging and got it!" she said.

The NHS apprenticeship allowed her to earn while she learned, combining on-the-job training with academic study.

She's now working towards a foundation degree, which she expects to complete by May 2026.

Harriet Aitchison in uniform
Harriet Aitchison in uniformRichard Weller-PoleyRichard Weller-Poley Photography

The appeal of variety: "Having done nothing medical before, I wanted to experience and see all the different departments," she explained. The Training Academy and subsequent apprenticeship offered her just that – a chance to sample various NHS roles before committing.

Surprising discoveries: "If I'd have thought before what area would I want to work in I would've said radiography, but now I'm drawn more to MRIs and plain-film x-rays," she revealed, highlighting how hands-on experience can shift career aspirations.

Looking ahead: "I'm really enjoying it and will continue studying for my foundation degree," Aitchison said of her new role and apprenticeship journey.

How to become an NHS apprentice:

  • Visit the ESNEFT website for current apprenticeship opportunities

  • Email talentforcare@esneft.nhs.uk for more information about NHS careers and apprenticeships

  • Check the NHS job page for vacancies, including apprenticeship roles

The bottom line: It's never too late to consider a healthcare career, and apprenticeships offer a practical route for career changers, combining hands-on experience with formal qualifications.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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