Today marks the start of National Apprenticeship Week!
It's a chance to celebrate the people who learn, grow and build their careers across the NHS and here at SaTH. Apprenticeships play a vital role in developing our workforce, creating opportunities for people at every stage of life, and equipping our staff with the skills and knowledge they need to excel in their careers.
Whether you're just starting out, looking for a career change, or already working in the organisation and ready for your next step, an NHS apprenticeship offers a meaningful and supportive route into a wide range of careers.
This National Apprenticeship week, we're giving you five reasons to consider one:
1. Earn while you learn
Choosing an apprenticeship allows you to gain a recognised qualification whilst gaining valuable workplace experience. You'll earn a salary, gain hands-on experience and develop practical skills. Alongside your on-the-job training, you'll also spend around 20% off your week in off-the-job training with a learning provider such as a college or university, which will help you learn the theory and skills to become fully competent in your chosen occupation.
2. Pathways into a wide range of roles - with NO tuition fees
The NHS is one of the largest and most diverse employers in the UK. We offer apprenticeships across both clinical and non-clinical areas, from nursing and allied health professionals to business administration, finance, digital and leadership. With a variety of programmes from Level 2 to Level 7, there's apprenticeships for people from all backgrounds and with differing ambitions, whether you're a school leaver or looking to upskill in your existing career. Additionally, apprenticeships are fully funded so you'll gain the qualification without the costly tuition fees!
3. Clear opportunities to progress
Apprenticeships are designed to support long-term development. Many colleagues begin their apprenticeship journey with an entry-level role and qualification, before progressing into advanced or degree-level study. We offer a range of apprenticeship programmes across all levels, so there's sure to be something that matches your skills and career goals. It's not unusual for some of our staff to complete more than one apprenticeship during their career with us.
Some examples of the progression routes available are highlighted below:
- Level 2 Healthcare Support Worker - Level 5 Nursing Associate - Level 6 Registered Nurse Degree - Level Advanced Clinical Practice (Masters level)
- Level 3 Business Administration - Level 5 Operations Manager - Level 6 Chartered Manager - Level 7 Senior Leader
- Level 3 Data Technician - Level 4 Data Analyst - Level 6 Data Scientist
Both Emily and Tessa have progressed their careers with SaTH, from Healthcare Assistant through the Nursing Associate apprenticeship and then the Registered Nurse degree apprenticeship. Both are now working in the Trust as Staff Nurses.
4. Real hands-on experience in your chosen field
As an apprentice with us, you'll be part of the NHS from day one. You'll work alongside experienced colleagues, learning quickly with their expert guidance. You'll be working on real projects within your field, and dealing with real customers or patients, giving you the opportunity to build your practical skills in a way that cannot be achieved through classroom learning alone.
5. Support throughout your journey
Our apprentices are supported by managers, mentors, training providers and wider teams. You'll have protected learning time throughout your apprenticeship, which could include classroom lessons, lectures or online learning. Training providers will also assign you a coach who works with you to track progress, provide 1-1 support and ensure you are meeting deadlines throughout your course. You'll also meet regularly with your line manager to track progress.
National Apprenticeship Week
Over the course of this week, we'll be sharing stories from colleagues who have completed apprenticeships at SaTH - from those starting their first roles to experienced staff developing their skills and earning promotions. Their journeys showcase the real impact apprenticeships can have.
Follow us on Facebook as we celebrate our apprentices, share their stories, and highlight the wide range of apprenticeship opportunities available across our organisation throughout the week.
