Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships in primary care

Apprenticeships in primary care are a great way for people to start or develop their careers while earning a wage and gaining real workplace experience. They combine practical on-the-job learning with formal training, so staff can build skills and confidence in their roles. Clinical apprenticeships, such as those for nurses, allied health professionals, or other patient-facing roles, focus on developing the knowledge and experience needed to deliver safe and effective care. Non-clinical apprenticeships, such as business administration, leadership, or digital roles, are just as important in keeping services running smoothly and supporting patient care. Apprenticeships offer opportunities for people at all ages and stages of their careers, helping to grow and strengthen the future primary care workforce.

What are apprenticeships?

Apprenticeships are structured programmes that blend learning in the workplace with dedicated training time away from the job. Apprentices gain practical experience as part of their role, while also completing activities such as assessments, projects, personal reflection, and formal teaching.

For most people in full-time employment, this means spending around 80% of their time in their usual job and 20% focused on apprenticeship training — often equating to four days at work and one day set aside for learning.

Apprenticeships are available at a range of levels:

• Level 2 (equivalent to GCSEs)– usually lasting 12–18 months
• Level 3 (equivalent to A-levels)– typically 18–48 months
• Levels 4–5 (equivalent to a Foundation degree and above)– generally 24+ months
• Levels 6–7 (equivalent to a full BSc or Masters)– usually 24+ months

They are open to anyone aged 16 or over who is not in full-time education, and people can apply at any stage of life, regardless of age, background, or career experience.

Most apprenticeship pathways require learners to have, or be willing to work towards, a Level 2 qualification in English and Maths (sometimes called Functional Skills). Some programmes may set additional entry requirements depending on the role. Support is often available to help apprentices achieve the necessary standards.

Further details about apprenticeships can be found on the GOV.UK website and information about NHS apprenticeship, trainee, and cadet schemes is available on the NHS Careers website.

Non-clinical apprenticeships

Non-clinical apprenticeships in primary care give people the chance to develop valuable skills and gain recognised qualifications while working in an essential part of the health service. They help to professionalise roles that may have previously been seen as “just a job,” by providing structured training, career progression, and nationally recognised standards. Apprenticeships in areas such as administration, leadership, finance, or digital services strengthen the foundations of primary care, ensuring that clinical teams can focus on patient care. For individuals, they offer a supportive pathway to build confidence, achieve qualifications, and progress in a rewarding career within the NHS.