← Back to Training

NHS Apprenticeships

Earn while you learn across all NHS roles - from Band 2 to Band 6

What are NHS Apprenticeships?

NHS apprenticeships combine paid employment with structured training and nationally recognised qualifications. You work 4 days per week and study 1 day per week, gaining practical experience while earning a salary.

Entry: Usually GCSEs required
Duration: 1-4 years depending on level
Cost: FREE - employer pays

Nursing Degree Apprenticeship

Train as a registered nurse while working. 4-year programme combining work and university study, leading to BSc Nursing and NMC registration.

Entry requirements: 5 GCSEs (including English, Maths, Science) + Level 3 qualification
Salary: NHS Band 4 while training (~£27k), then Band 5 as qualified nurse (~£31k+)
Fields: Adult, Mental Health, Learning Disability, Children's Nursing
Study pattern: Work in clinical practice while attending university (typically 1 day/week + block weeks)

Healthcare Support Worker Apprenticeships

Level 2: Healthcare Support Worker

12-18 months. Basic clinical skills, personal care, observations. Band 2 role.

Entry: Usually GCSEs in English & Maths

Level 3: Senior Healthcare Support Worker

18-24 months. Advanced clinical skills, mentoring, team coordination. Band 3 role.

Entry: Level 2 qualification or equivalent experience

Level 5: Assistant Practitioner

2 years. Foundation degree level. Supervised clinical procedures, care planning. Band 4 role.

Entry: Level 3 qualification + relevant experience

Allied Health Professional Apprenticeships

  • Physiotherapy (Level 6): 3-4 years, BSc Physiotherapy, HCPC registration
  • Occupational Therapy (Level 6): 3-4 years, BSc OT, HCPC registration
  • Operating Department Practitioner (Level 6): 2-3 years, work in theatres
  • Radiography (Level 6): 3 years, diagnostic or therapeutic radiography
  • Pharmacy Technician (Level 3): 2 years, dispensing and medicines management

Business & Administration Apprenticeships

Level 2: Customer Service/Admin Support - Reception, appointments, data entry
Level 3: Business Administrator - Medical secretary, ward clerk, team coordinator
Level 4: Associate Project Manager - Lead projects, manage resources
Level 6: Chartered Manager - Service management, strategic planning

Digital & Data Apprenticeships

  • • Data Analyst (Level 4): Healthcare data analysis, reporting, insights
  • • Software Developer (Level 4): Build healthcare applications and systems
  • • Cyber Security (Level 4): Protect NHS IT infrastructure and patient data
  • • Digital Marketing (Level 3): Communications, social media, engagement

How to Apply

  1. Search NHS Jobs website for apprenticeship vacancies
  2. Check entry requirements carefully (GCSEs, experience)
  3. Prepare CV highlighting any healthcare experience/volunteering
  4. Write strong personal statement explaining motivation for NHS career
  5. Attend assessment day (usually includes interview + practical tasks)

Tip: Many trusts recruit apprentices in September/October for January starts

Benefits of NHS Apprenticeships

  • ✓ Earn while you learn (no tuition fees)
  • ✓ Gain recognised qualifications
  • ✓ Practical NHS experience
  • ✓ NHS pension from day one
  • ✓ Clear career progression pathways
  • ✓ Mentorship and support
  • ✓ Job security in growing sector
  • ✓ Make a difference to patients