Work, learn and earn as a trainee nurse apprentice

Dorset HealthCare is on the look-out for 20 enthusiastic and motivated individuals to join its Trainee Nursing Associate apprenticeship programme.

Successful applicants to the programme will gain valuable experience and learn from nurses on the job, while also completing a two-year foundation degree before qualifying as a nurse associate – all while earning a wage.

Trainee nurses are a vital part of the wider nursing team and sit between health care assistants and registered nurses.

The role involves delivering person-centred care in a range of different health and social care settings, including hospitals, care homes, general practice and in the community.

Alongside on-the-job training, apprentices spend at least 20 per cent of their working hours completing classroom-based learning with a college, university or training provider. Applications close at the end of this week.

Sas Watson completed the apprenticeship programme with the Trust last year and is now a Registered Nurse Associate, working with a team of district nurses in Wareham. She has also recently become the Health Education England Nursing Associate Ambassador. She said:

“I would encourage anyone who is considering this apprenticeship to go for it, as it’s a great opportunity to study while receiving a regular income and beginning a worthwhile and fulfilling career. 

“The training side of things is a mixture of hands-on experience in the workplace, which is then supported by learning in the classroom.”

At the end of the two-year apprenticeship, successful individuals will have achieved a nationally-recognised foundation degree qualification, with no tuition fees. And, once registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council, they will become a fully registered nursing associate.

Joining the Trust as an apprentice gives an opportunity to gain experience in the role, to upskill or change career, and earn a living while studying. 

Applications for the Trainee Nurse Associate Apprenticeship are open until Sunday (17 April).

For more information contact the Trust’s Apprenticeship Team on dhc.apprenticeship@nhs.net or complete the application form online at www.jobs.nhs.uk - search for ‘Trainee Nursing Associate Apprentice Band 3’ or job reference 152-S349.21.