Karen Gaston comes from a family of Care Assistants so it was almost inevitable for her to follow the same path. Having left school with no definite plan, she first worked at the Villa Adastra home in Hassocks and then in July 2000 moved to the Ladymead Nursing Home where she's now taking an Advanced Apprenticeship in Care.

How did you find out about Apprenticeships?

When I was working at the Villa Adastra my manager suggested I did an NVQ Level 2 in housekeeping and that led on to the idea of an Apprenticeship.

Why did you choose to work at Ladymead?

It's a really nice home with 23 residents and my manager Harry is supportive of my training.

What do you do at work?

During my shift I'm helping the residents with their personal care - bathing and dressing - and serving their meals. My work is also about chatting to them and creating a nice atmosphere for them to be in.

How about your training?

I don't have to go to college but my trainer from my training organisation comes to see me at work every six weeks to set work for the NVQ and observe me while I'm working here.

Why is a Apprenticeship right for you?

When I've finished my NVQ Level 3 I'm keen to work in a hospital and maybe get into nursing. My work experience will stand me in good stead and obviously I'll be qualified too. The Apprenticeship is a great way to get all that experience and I'm very glad I've decided to go down this path.