Nursing apprenticeships

Looking to take the next step in your healthcare journey? Nursing apprenticeships offer a paid, hands-on route into nursing, combining real-world experience with classroom learning

What do nursing apprenticeships involve?

For four days a week, you'll gain hands-on experience performing patient care and administrative tasks. The remaining day will be in the classroom, where you'll delve into the theoretical aspects of your role. You'll work closely with experienced team members who will guide you through your responsibilities, providing you with the training and resources you need to excel.Ìý

'Apprenticeships enable a faster integration of theory and practice,' explain Caroline Bromwich and Jacqui Caskey, programme leads for the nursing apprenticeship at UWE. 'For instance, you could attend a seminar about paracetamol one day and then the next day participate in the care of a patient who needs it. This contrasts with traditional nursing programmes, where several weeks might elapse between attending a seminar and starting a placement.'

What nursing apprenticeships are available?

Dental nursing advanced apprenticeship (Level 3)Ìý

Offering a valuable pathway into the dental profession, this practical training programme in a dental practice allows apprentices to earn a nationally recognised Level 3 diploma in dental nursing, essential for registration with the General Dental Council.

Key areas of study include:Ìý

• chairside assistanceÌý
• dental materialsÌý
• effective communicationÌý
• health and safetyÌý
• infection controlÌý
• patient careÌý
• °ù²¹»å¾±´Ç²µ°ù²¹±è³ó²â.Ìý

To complete a Level 3 course, you'll typically need four or five GCSEs at grades 9-4 or equivalent, and a strong interest in dentistry.Ìý

For more details on eligibility, see advanced apprenticeships.Ìý

Assistant practitioner higher apprenticeship (Level 5) Ìý

This apprenticeship is an excellent starting point for those pursuing a career in healthcare, leading to a foundation degree in healthcare practice. This two-year programme can be a route towards further education, such as a registered nurse degree apprenticeship.Ìý

To be eligible for this programme, you must be employed in a healthcare setting for at least 30 hours per week, and your employer must cover the cost of the course. To pursue a Level 5 higher apprenticeship, you must have two A-levels or equivalent qualifications and a GCSE in maths and English.Ìý

To understand where a foundation degree sits in line with other qualifications, see our guide to qualifications.Ìý

Nursing associate higher apprenticeship (Level 5) Ìý

Bridging the gap between healthcare assistants and registered nurses, this apprenticeship provides a flexible progression pathway. Individuals can pursue it as a standalone programme or stepping stone towards becoming a registered nurse.Ìý

This programme is designed to enhance career progression within the healthcare sector, equipping individuals with the skills and qualifications needed to advance their roles and responsibilities.Ìý

To be eligible for the apprenticeship, you'll need GCSEs in English and maths at grade C/4 or equivalent, coupled with healthcare experience. Some employers may also require a Level 3 qualification in a healthcare-related field.Ìý

For more detailed information on costs and entry requirements, see higher apprenticeships.Ìý

Registered nurse degree apprenticeship (Level 6)Ìý

By successfully completing the apprenticeship, you'll earn a full Bachelors degree in nursing and achieve registered nurse status.Ìý

You'll have the flexibility to specialise in adult, child, or mental health nursing based on your interests. This allows you to focus your studies and gain practical experience in a specific area of nursing.Ìý

The apprenticeship typically lasts for three years and requires specific entry qualifications, which may include academic requirements and other criteria set by the apprenticeship provider and healthcare employer. For example, for entry to the programme with Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust, you'll need:Ìý

• GCSEs grade C/4 or Level 2 functional skills in maths and EnglishÌý
• Level 3 qualificationÌý
• Care CertificateÌý
• at least 12 months experience in a hospital or community clinical setting delivering high quality care.Ìý

For more information on costs, salaries and eligibility, see degree apprenticeships.Ìý

Does the NHS offer nursing apprenticeships?

The NHS provide the following apprenticeships:Ìý

• dental nursing (Level 3)Ìý
• nursing associate apprenticeship (Level 5)Ìý
• registered nursing degree apprenticeship (Level 6).Ìý

Most successful NHS apprentices remain employed upon graduation from the apprenticeship, often with the same employer. You could also continue your education through a higher level apprenticeship or pursue university study if you meet the necessary qualifications.Ìý

The NHS also offers apprenticeships for other healthcare roles that can support a career in nursing. For more information, visit NHS - apprenticeships or explore our information on allied health professions.

Which universities offer nursing apprenticeships?

Each university may offer one or all of the different types of apprenticeships, and what they teach may also differ. You will need to do your research on what suits you but here are some examples of what's on offer:

• Anglia Ruskin University
• University of Brighton
• University of Cumbria
• University of Derby
• University of Greenwich
• University of HertfordshireÌý
• Keele UniversityÌý
• Northumbria University
• The Open University
• Southampton Solent University
• University of Suffolk

Who are they aimed at?

Generally, anyone aged 16 or older with GCSEs can apply for the Level 3 dental nursing apprenticeship.Ìý

The assistant practitioner and nursing associate apprenticeships are specifically designed for healthcare assistants and support workers at Band 2/3 levels who want to advance their careers. These programmes focus on developing practical skills and knowledge to enhance patient care.Ìý

For those who have successfully completed a Level 5 qualification, the registered nurse apprenticeship provides the necessary education and training to become a fully qualified registered nurse.Ìý

International students can also pursue nursing apprenticeships in the UK, but they must be eligible to work in the country and have the necessary visas. You'll need to review the eligibility criteria for each vacancy, as these are determined by the institution and employer.Ìý

For more details, see working in the UK.Ìý

How much will I be paid?

All apprentices are entitled to the National Minimum Wage (NMW), which is currently £6.40 per hour (as of April 2024) for those under 19 and those aged over 19 in the first year of their apprenticeship.Ìý

If you're over 19 and have completed the first year of your apprenticeship, you must be paid the NMW for your age.Ìý

Nurse apprentices often earn more than this. For example, on the three-year registered nurse degree apprenticeship with Southern Health NHS Foundation Trust, you'll receive a training salary of £23,713, which will increase incrementally each year. Upon qualification, you'll start at the bottom of Band 5 on £29,969.Ìý

As an apprentice, you'll be paid for your usual working hours and any training that's part of your scheme.  ÌýÌý

Apprentices are entitled to at least 20 days of paid holiday per year, plus bank holidays.

How do I apply?

To be eligible, you must currently hold a permanent position of at least 30 hours per week in a suitable role. Your employer must provide support and work-based supervision from a qualified supervisor.Ìý

Begin by researching available apprenticeships in your local area and reviewing the eligibility requirements. Once you've narrowed your options, apply directly to the relevant healthcare provider or trust.Ìý

In addition to listing your current healthcare employment, your application should include:Ìý

• certificates of relevant qualifications, or at least two A-levels, one being in a science or health-related subjectÌý
• English and maths GCSEs or equivalent, to at least a C/4 standardÌý
• a clear Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.Ìý

To demonstrate your suitability for the apprenticeship, include relevant work experience on your application. While a hospital placement is ideal, experience in a care home or similar setting is also valuable.Ìý

According to Caroline and Jacqui, 'successful candidates should demonstrate attitudes and behaviours aligned with the Nursing and Midwifery Council code throughout the application and interview process. For those with healthcare experience, we expect a clear understanding of their career progression goals beyond simply having worked in the field for several years. Demonstrating flexibility, resilience, and strong organisational skills is also essential.'

Developing transferable skills like effective communication, leadership, and time management can enhance your nursing application. Discover what skills employers are looking for.Ìý

Before entry onto an apprenticeship, all applicants need to complete an Initial Skills Assessment, which maps their prior knowledge against the apprenticeship standard.Ìý

³Õ¾±²õ¾±³Ù how to apply for an apprenticeship for further guidance on what to include in your application.Ìý

Find out more

• See what else theÌýhealthcare sectorÌýhas to offer.
• Read all about being an adult nurse.
• Take a look at the role of a children's nurse.