During National Apprenticeship Week 2026, we’re proud to celebrate the achievements of our apprentices, most recently, 16 of our Assistant Practitioner apprentices, who have successfully completed their Level 5 qualifications with Hugh Baird College, in partnership with the University of Cumbria.
An incredible 94% achieved high grades, which reflects the dedication, resilience, hard work and commitment of our workforce. Our graduates come from diverse clinical specialisms from our hospital and community settings such as Axess Sexual Health, Urology, Dialysis, Stoma Care, Stroke Rehabilitation, Therapies (Acute and Community), Outpatient Clinics (including Breast Cancer), Alcohol Support Services and Cardiology and Vascular Care.
Balancing patient care with work and study
Each apprentice attended university one day a week while managing busy roles across our hospitals. Their ability to balance their academic study whilst delivering safe and compassionate care to our patients has been described as inspirational by both colleagues and tutors.
Although each learning journey has been different, one common theme has been their deep commitment to develop new skills while continuing to deliver high‑quality care to our communities.
One apprentice returned to education after many years, initially nervous, they embraced the challenge and discovered a passion for learning, completing the course with confidence and a desire to continue studying.
Another apprentice experienced a serious illness during the programme, requiring time away from work and study. Despite this setback, they caught up on missed sessions and excelled in their assignments.
Many colleagues joined the apprenticeship to bridge the gap between healthcare assistant roles and registered practitioner responsibilities, developing skills in leadership, anatomy, ethics, and legislation, knowledge they are already applying to their practice to enhance patient care.
Our graduates said
Feedback from apprentices has been overwhelmingly positive, with one graduate sharing: “The course has been incredibly educational and invaluable to developing my healthcare career. I have been very lucky to be supported, listened to and valued throughout my journey”
Another said: “The structure worked perfectly, one day in college and four days in placement gives a great balance between theory and practice.”
Looking ahead
Many of our graduates now feel equipped to take the next step in their career, whether progressing into leadership roles, continuing further study, or enhancing safe and effective practice by sharing knowledge within their current teams.
Most importantly, our new Assistant Practitiones feel confident that what they have learnt will directly improve the care that we provide to our communities.
We’re exceptionally proud of all sixteen graduates and look forward to seeing the impact they will continue to make for our patients, families and communities.
To find out more about apprenticeship opportunities for staff please contact Peter Melia or call 0151 706 3156.
