Apprenticeships at NCH&C - Build your future with us

Apprenticeships are a great way to combine work and study, giving you practical experience while learning the skills you need to succeed. At NCH&C, we're passionate about our apprenticeship programme - not just because it helps people start or grow their careers, but because it's vital to building the skilled NHS workforce of the future.

Whether you're just starting out, switching careers, or looking to gain new qualifications to progress in your role, apprenticeships can open doors you might not have thought possible. And despite common misconceptions, they're not just for school leavers - there's an apprenticeship for almost everyone.

What is an apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a paid role that blends hands-on work with structured training. You'll spend most of your time working alongside experienced colleagues, and at least 20% of your time learning - whether that's in a classroom, online, or in dedicated training sessions.

At the end, you'll have a recognised qualification and valuable experience to help you move forward in your career.

We've created resources to help explain what apprenticeships are (and what they aren't), along with real stories from past and present NCH&C apprentices to showcase the range of opportunities available.

Who can apply?

Almost anyone! There's no upper age limit. Apprenticeships are ideal if you're:

  • A school leaver
  • Returning to work
  • Looking to change careers
  • Wanting to progress in your current role

Pay and benefits

All NHS apprenticeships are paid positions. At NCH&C, you'll also receive:

  • At least 27 days' annual leave plus bank holidays (rising with service)
  • NHS pension and employee benefits
  • Unsocial hours payments (depending on your role)
  • Paid training time as part of your working week

Training and study time

You'll spend at least 20% of your working hours on training, which may be:

  • Weekly, monthly, or in blocks
  • Delivered at work, online, or at college
  • Provided by approved training partners

You'll receive full details about your training schedule before you start.

Support during your apprenticeship

At NCH&C, you'll be supported every step of the way. This includes:

  • A dedicated apprenticeship assessor or advisor
  • On-the-job guidance from your line manager
  • Protected learning time
  • Pastoral care and wellbeing support
  • Help with job applications and interviews

Why choose an apprenticeship with NCH&C

We believe in growing our own. Our vibrant apprenticeship programme helps develop the NHS workforce of the future. Our culture is supportive, open, and inclusive - and we're committed to helping every apprentice succeed.

Many of our apprentices go on to secure permanent roles at NCH&C, often in the community health services that make our work so special.

When and how to apply

  • Clinical entry-level apprenticeships are advertised annually in June/early July.
  • Non-clinical entry-level apprenticeships are advertised based on service needs - you can set up alerts on NHS Jobs.
  • All apprenticeship vacancies are listed on NHS Jobs, UCAS Apprenticeships, and our NCH&C Careers social media pages (X/Twitter and Facebook).
  • We also offer apprenticeships throughout the year in areas such as Nursing and Allied Health Professions (Physiotherapy, Dietetics, Occupational Therapy). These are currently only available to existing NCH&C colleagues.

What happens after an apprenticeship?

We'll help you prepare for your next step - whether that's with us or elsewhere in the NHS.

Some roles guarantee a permanent position at NCH&C upon successful completion, including:

  • Level 2 Healthcare Support Worker
  • Level 5 Trainee Nurse Associate
  • Level 6 Nursing Degree

Top tips for your NCH&C apprenticeship application

Applying for an apprenticeship is just like applying for a job - so give it proper thought. Here are our top tips:

  • Do your research - understand the apprenticeship and the role you're applying for.
  • Match your experience to the job description - think about hobbies, interests, and past roles that show relevant skills.
  • Tailor your application - each one should be specific to the role.
  • Highlight your top qualities - ask teachers, friends, or family to help you identify them.
  • Give examples - if you say you're a good communicator, show how (e.g. school council, team leader).
  • Proofread - check for spelling and grammar errors, and ask someone else to review it too.
Want to know more?

Call us on 01603 272592 / 272593
Email: careerdevelopment@nchc.nhs.uk