University of Greater Manchester
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11/02/2026
A healthcare assistant who works in Devon has won the University’s Apprentice of the Year award for 2026.
Xavier Marchena Stanciu, who works at the Royal Devon University Hospital, said he was “incredibly proud” of the honour,
Xavier is currently completing the Nursing Associate Apprenticeship with the University as part of its Devon-based cohort and is able to work and study as an apprentice to advance his career.
After five years as a Healthcare Assistant (HCA),with the Trust and with the encouragement of colleagues and Clinical Nurse Manager (CNM), he decided to do an NVQ Level 3.
He said: “The next logical step for my career progression was to enrol as a Student Nurse Associate. The apprenticeship route is ideal for me as it allows me to study and gain a qualification while continuing to work and earn a salary. It is a challenging yet very rewarding experience.”
Xavier says the biggest highlight has been “acquiring in-depth knowledge directly applicable to my role. This has significantly improved my ability to care for patients, as I can now better understand their symptoms and support their treatments”.
He added: “My apprenticeship has made a tangible difference in the workplace by allowing me to apply my learning in real-time clinical scenarios.
“An apprenticeship is an excellent path for those who may not have the financial support to fund a university degree, or for those with young families who need a more flexible approach to learning.
“It helps the transition from a Healthcare Assistant to a Nursing Associate, opening new career opportunities.”
Xavier said: “Receiving the UGM Apprenticeship award has given me a push to keep my hard work and dedication.
Lynda Farrell, Head of Apprenticeships at the University of Greater, said: “Xavier’s hard work and dedication make him a worthy winner of this year’s University Apprentice of the Year.”
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