NHS Apprenticeships What you need to know

NHS Apprenticeships What you need to know by Michael Cheary Always wanted to work for the NHS? You’re in luck… Finding a career with the National Health Service isn’t just for doctors and nurses. There are a wide range of different opportunities out there, many of which may not even require a background in healthcare to get started.We’ve already covered how to get a job in healthcare without any experience, but here’s everything you need to know about NHS apprenticeships:What are NHS apprenticeships? NHS Apprenticeships are the perfect way to start a career in healthcare.They’re available to anyone over the age of 16, and provide a great opportunity to learn the ropes in a new role, whilst still getting paid a regular wage.Currently, the NHS employs around 14,000 apprentices across the UK.Apprenticeships: How to get startedApplying for apprenticeshipsHow long do NHS apprenticeships last? An apprenticeship with the NHS can take anywhere from one to four years to complete.The exact length will depend on the role you apply for, and which level your apprenticeship is.  What apprenticeships are available? The NHS offers a wide range of apprenticeship opportunities, covering everything from dental nursing to emergency care.Some of the most popular NHS apprenticeships include:Maternity and paediatric supportPerioperative supportPharmacy servicesHealth and social careDental nursingHealthcare assistanceInformaticsHowever, this is by no means an extensive list, and there are hundreds of different disciplines on offer to choose from.What’s more, with crucial changes on the horizon within the health sector, apprenticeships are on the rise â€" with the NHS looking to employ 100,000 apprentices by the year 2020.Five apprenticeships you may not have consideredNHS apprenticeship levelsApprenticeships with the NHS are available at four levels:Intermediate Apprenticeships equivalent to five GCSEs A* â€" CAdvanced Apprenticeships equivalent to two A-LevelsHigher Apprenticeships equivalent to a fo undation degree and aboveDegree Apprenticeships equivalent to a full bachelor’s or master’s degreeThe type of apprenticeship that’s right for you will depend on your previous experience, as well as what role you’re looking to go into.Types of apprenticeshipsWhat are the entry requirements? As you might expect, NHS Apprenticeships are highly competitive.Entry requirements will all depend on which level you’re looking to start. For most Intermediate Apprenticeships, for example, there might not be any set requirements (although GCSEs may help).However, to move on to an Advanced Apprenticeship, you’ll generally need at least five good GCSEs, or to have completed the Intermediate level. For Higher Apprenticeships, A Levels (or the previous apprenticeship level) will be required.Aside from qualifications, you’ll need to show that you’re committed, aware of your responsibilities and able to successfully manage the work whilst studying â€" all whilst sharing the core NHS v alues of wanting to help and care for people.  What are the benefits of an NHS apprenticeship? There are many great benefits of starting an apprenticeship in the healthcare industry.Some of the top benefits include:Gaining a nationally-recognised qualificationLearning whilst you earn a regular wageOn-the-job experienceSupport from industry professionalsBuilding up your professional networkWhy choose an apprenticeship?Seven reasons you should start an apprenticeship  What can I do after my apprenticeship? Once you’ve completed your apprenticeship, you will generally either be offered a permanent position, or allowed to continue your professional development.If you don’t choose to move on to the next level, you may even be eligible to move into higher education â€" and build on the skills and knowledge you’ve learned during your apprenticeship.If you aren’t lucky enough to be kept on, you’ll still have a professional qualification to add to your CV. And with 15% of employers stating that apprentices are more employable than those with other qualifications, there’ll be no limit to how far you can progress in your career.Five reasons you should be working in healthcareWhat are the career prospects for apprentices?    Ready to start? View all available apprenticeships now.  Careermap is an online platform which is dedicated to supporting 15-24 year olds who are looking for a pathway into apprenticeships and early career opportunities. Find a job What Where Search JobsSign up for more Career AdviceSign up for moreCareer Advice Please enter a valid email addressmessage hereBy clicking Submit you agree to the