Assistant Practitioner (Health) Apprenticeship

This apprenticeship programme has been specifically designed to develop Radiography Practitioners capable of delivering high-quality, patient-centred care while responding effectively to the diverse and evolving demands of the healthcare environment across a range of imaging modalities. 

• There is currently a significant shortage of qualified Diagnostic Radiographers within the UK healthcare sector, resulting in a high demand for skilled healthcare professionals. 
• The Assistant Practitioner (Health) Apprenticeship provides current healthcare practitioners with the opportunity to acquire enhanced skills and knowledge, enabling them to qualify as Assistant Practitioners. 
• The programme adopts a flexible approach to accommodate individual scopes of practice, supporting the development of Assistant Practitioners across various modalities, including Projectional Radiography, Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), and Radionuclide Imaging (RNI). 
• A blended learning model is employed, combining workplace-based learning, online instruction, and on-campus teaching. Learners attend an in-situ study day every six weeks, utilising Keele University’s state-of-the-art Radiography Suite and the Image Analysis Digital Health Hub. 
• Upon successful completion of the Assistant Practitioner (Health) Apprenticeship, learners will be eligible to progress onto the BSc (Hons) Radiography (Diagnostic Imaging) degree apprenticeship programme.

The apprenticeship is focused on applying the subject theory into applicants own clinical practice. Apprentices will develop the ability to reflect on and respond proactively to change, undertaking a range of diagnostic imaging tests whilst maintaining excellent patient and client care.

The learning is a hybrid model of synchronous and asynchronous teaching, with support from lecturers and in-situ days (approximately five a year) on campus at Keele University.

Indicative modules include.

• Foundations for Academic Skills.
• Fundamentals of Radiographic Assistant and Healthcare Practitioner.
• Appendicular Anatomy.
• Image Evaluation and Radiographic Practice.
• Pelvis, Spine, Mobile chest.
• Foundations of Research.
• Radiographic Science and Safe Practice.
• Leadership, Teamworking, Professionalism and Wellbeing at Work.
• Dedicated Practice Experience modules across all levels of study.

To complete an apprenticeship, you must be employed in an organisation with your employer's support. We typically require apprentice applications 8 weeks before programme starts and by undertaking an apprenticeship, you commit to completing the End Point Assessment (EPA).

The Assistant Practitioner (Health) Apprenticeship typically requires.

• Applicants must be employed in a healthcare organisation which offers a significant amount of all types of radiographic training.
• GCSE Maths and English, Grade C (4) or equivalent. 

We will work in partnership with you to ensure you are supported throughout the apprenticeship process.

• Our Business Engagement Manager will provide tailored support and offer guidance on applying for an apprenticeship at Keele University, direction on eligibility and contracting, or any other questions you may have.
• This relationship does not stop once you start an apprenticeship at Keele University. We offer a personalised approach to apprentices, ensuring you have the assistance you need from Keele University as your Training Provider, every step of the way.

Apprenticeships are paid for by employers, not apprentices.

• Employers with a payroll of more than £3 million can typically use their apprenticeship levy contributions to pay for places on apprenticeship programmes.
• Any business with a payroll below £3 million is usually eligible for government funding that will cover at least 95% of the cost of an apprenticeship course. 

Additional incentives are also available to employers based on differing circumstances. 

Contact us to find out more...

You make an application to study an apprenticeship through your employer with their support.

Applicants must meet several key criteria:  

• Employment in a relevant role: Applicants must be currently employed in a position relevant to the apprenticeship or be recruited into a new role that aligns with the apprenticeship focus.  
• If you are seeking a new role with apprenticeship training: Employers will typically advertise apprenticeship vacancies through their own recruitment sites and browse apprenticeships before you apply.
• Meet entry requirements: You must satisfy the specific entry requirements for the apprenticeship, including necessary educational qualifications and/or relevant professional experience.  
• Employer support for upskilling: Existing employees are encouraged to discuss with their employers the potential for support in upskilling through the apprenticeship, which can enhance their professional development and benefit the organisation.