NHS Apprenticeships

Can you get an apprenticeship with the NHS?

The good news is that there are hundreds of NHS apprenticeships to choose from.

You could become a nurse and provide hands-on care to patients in a cancer ward. Or work as a maternity support worker, looking after mums as they move from pregnancy to childbirth.

Interested in business administration? Why not jump into an office management role. You'll work behind the scenes - meeting or hiring staff, managing enquiries and putting your client services skills into full swing. How awesome is that?

NHS apprenticeships are a BRILLIANT way to kick-start your career after leaving school at age 16. They allow you to receive on-the-job training, nationally recognised qualifications and a fab wage too.

All (mostly) without having to go to university.

What NHS apprenticeships are available?

They are growing all the time, but some that are currently available are:

• Associate ambulance practitioner (level 4)

• Business administrator (level 3)

• Dental nursing (level 3)

• Healthcare science assistant, associate and practitioner (levels 2, 4 and 6 respectively)

• HR consultant (level 5)

• Informatics (levels 2 to 7)

• Maternity support worker (levels 2 and 3)

• Nursing associate apprenticeship (level 5)

• Operating department practice degree apprenticeship (level 6)

• Pharmacy services assistant (level 2)

• Podiatry degree apprenticeship (level 6)

• Registered nursing degree apprenticeship (level 6)

• Senior therapy support worker (level 3)

Make sure you check out the NHS website to find out about the other opportunities they have:

What do NHS apprentices do?

NHS apprentices work across a wide range of roles, helping to support the UK’s healthcare system while training for a nationally recognised qualification. 

Apprenticeships are available in both clinical and non-clinical areas, giving people the chance to earn while they learn, gain hands-on experience, and build a career in healthcare, even without a university degree.

Depending on your type of job, as an apprentice with the NHS, you might:

• Support nurses and healthcare assistants with patient care on hospital wards

• Train in healthcare science, working with lab equipment or medical technology

• Assist in pharmacy services, preparing and dispensing medicines

• Work in administration or business support, helping with patient records and appointments

• Help in IT and digital roles, supporting NHS systems and infrastructure

• Learn facilities and estates skills like plumbing, electrical work, or catering

NHS apprenticeships can range from entry-level to degree-level, making them a flexible and accessible route into one of the UK’s largest and most vital employers, so definitely an opportunity worth looking into!

Can you become a GP through an apprenticeship?

You can’t currently become a fully qualified GP (General Practitioner) through an apprenticeship alone, but new pathways are emerging that make medical careers more accessible. 

To become a GP, you still need to complete a medical degree, followed by further postgraduate training in general practice. However, a Medical Doctor Degree Apprenticeship was introduced in England in 2024, offering an alternative route into medicine for those who want to earn while they learn.

This apprenticeship allows you to train as a doctor,  including time in hospitals and GP surgeries, while studying part-time for your medical degree, usually over five to six years. 

It’s aimed at people who may not follow the traditional university path, such as school leavers, career changers, or NHS staff looking to upskill. 

Once qualified as a doctor through the apprenticeship route, you would still need to apply for GP speciality training, just like any other medical graduate.

In short, while you can’t skip the full medical training, there is now an apprenticeship route into becoming a doctor, which can eventually lead to a career as a GP.

For more information, check out:

What qualifications do you need to do an apprenticeship with the NHS?

Entry requirements will depend on the type and level of apprenticeship you choose. 

For example, you may need four or five GCSEs at grades 9-4/A-C or equivalent to do a level 3 apprenticeship. To start a level 6 apprenticeship, you're likely to need A-levels or relevant experience.

To summarise:

• Level 2. Some ask for two or more GCSEs graded at 9 to 4 (A* to C). However, lots of Level 2 apprenticeships don’t require GCSEs.

• Level 3. Five GCSEs graded 9 to 4 (A* to C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship.

• Level 4/5 (Higher). Two A-levels or equivalent (like a BTEC or an NVQ/SVQ).

• Level 6/7 (Degree). Three A-levels graded at A* to C or equivalent.

How much do NHS apprentices get paid?

While your salary depends on your employer and apprenticeship level, you'll still earn the National Minimum Wage. 

This is the minimum hourly wage that all employees are entitled to. The NHS may pay you more, so do check their website when applying. For example, on average, you will be paid £24,000 annually. 

It’s also important to note that your apprenticeship would only be the start of your journey with the NHS, as you keep growing and developing your skill set, your expertise and salary will increase as well!

How to apply for an NHS apprenticeship

You have come to the right place! You can apply for an NHS apprenticeship right here on Higherin! And, if you save their company page, you can be notified as soon as any new opportunities go live:

Once you’ve found a role that interests you, you’ll need to complete an online application. 

This usually includes a CV and cover letter. It helps to show that you’re enthusiastic, reliable, and ready to learn, even if you don’t have previous experience. 

If shortlisted, you may be invited to an interview or assessment. Successful applicants start as full NHS employees, combining work with training to gain a recognised qualification and valuable experience in a vital public service.