Here is the second of our apprenticeship case studies. As part of our #futureworkforce initiative we are looking at examples of how apprenticeship schemes work around the UK in a wide variety of industry sectors.

A small GP surgery near Salisbury was looking to recruit a Clinical Healthcare Apprentice. Sam Merritt – the successful applicant – had a particular interest in social care.

The surgery team wanted Sam to learn as much as possible in the workplace, because she had no clinical experience; however, this meant that training needed to include all the basics, from how to dress correctly to infection control and waste management. The first 12 weeks were spent preparing the apprentice to work in three main areas – ECGs, blood pressure monitoring, and NHS health checks. After this time, she was able to work on her own, with continued support and supervision.

The National Skills Academy for Health supports the apprentice’s formal education, with an assessor who provides the units electronically and meets with her about once a month to have either a professional discussion or an observation to ensure her quality of work. The surgery provides the learning environment with mentorship support in all the activities she undertakes, both clinical and administrative.

By the end of the 18-month apprenticeship she will achieve a Level 3 HCA qualification. The surgery hopes to keep Sam on when she has qualified, giving them a Level 3 HCA who is completely familiar with the way they work.

Sam said: “The idea of being able to earn while training was very appealing. It’s hard work, as I often need to study in the evenings, but definitely worthwhile – I enjoy the work and I’ll be a clinical Level 3 HCA when I’ve finished. My advice to anyone thinking of doing the same would be to make sure you have good time management skills – there aren’t enough hours in the day!”

Thanks to www.nsahealth.org.uk