Programme structure
The Nursing Associate Higher Apprenticeship has both a September and February entry point each academic year. Following the induction, apprentices will have scheduled teaching activities one day a week.
With support from the employer, apprentices are required to spend 20% of paid working hours on studies and be able to evidence this. This is a statutory requirement for apprenticeships and the funding is conditional on this being met. Off-the-job learning includes activities which have not previously been a part of the role or furthers apprentices development into new areas.
As a student on this course you’ll also get to participate in – hour-long sessions where students come together to listen to stories and share reflections in a supportive and confidential environment. The sessions offer the opportunity to reflect on the emotional aspects of clinical practice and are designed to support students and recent graduates working in complex settings.
Teaching and assessment
The course team nurture the Trainee Nursing Associates (TNAs) by providing an enriched curriculum to enhance their skills, abilities and professional and personal responsibilities and potential. Learning and teaching methods include:
- lectures
- simulations
- clinical teaching
- problem-based learning
- small group learning
- reflection
- seminars
- workshops
- tutorials.
TNAs undertake a variety of assessment tasks to test knowledge and skills related to the programme. During all modules TNAs provide feedback on their learning and development. Assessment methods include:
- essays
- tests
- poster presentation
- video presentation
- multiple choice questions
- e-learning assignments
- project reports.
Practice assessment is carried out by practice assessors and practice supervisors who are prepared and attend regular updates in accordance with the NMC requirements.
Facilities
Clinical Skills and Simulation Suite
Clinical skills and simulation rooms provide an invaluable tool for assessment and monitoring apprentices' progress throughout the course.
Apprentices benefit from practising skills in an environment that simulates real-life professional experiences. Learning by simulation with state-of-the-art mannequins enables apprentices to practice in a safe environment under supervision, so they can apply their knowledge and skills in professional practice with confidence.
Flexible Learning Environment
The Flexible Learning Environment is an adapted home environment in a residential location where apprentices are able to practise skills and learn from others while taking part in realistic training scenarios.
Every room is fitted with cameras and microphones, so that apprentices can be directed and monitored from the control room while the observation room provides the opportunity to review, playback and debrief.
Employer and apprentice commitments
In order to deliver the programme, the employer undertakes to:
- conduct a workplace induction and set out a contract of employment
- provide an appropriately qualified workplace mentor to support the apprentice
- attend apprentice's progress review (twice a year)
- ensure that an Occupational Health Screening and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check has been undertaken by the employer
- release apprentice for scheduled off-the-job learning
- have an Apprenticeship Agreement in place from the start of the programme.
Throughout the programme, apprentices will:
- attend the workplace for the agreed pattern as set out in the employment contract
- record all training sessions and off-the-job learning
- attend scheduled university learning sessions and complete all assessments as required by the university and End Point Assessment Organisation
- behave in a safe and responsible manner at the workplace and university
- engage with regular progress reviews
- complete, throughout the apprenticeship, a professional development portfolio.
Fees and funding information for apprentices
Course fees
As an apprentice, the cost of your learning programme is covered by your employer through their Digital Apprenticeship Service (DAS) account.
Student finance
Higher and degree level apprentices are not eligible for any element of student finance. This is because they receive a salary instead of the student loan package. However, if you are experiencing any financial difficulties, please contact the Student Advice Service on 01273 642 888.
Learning support
Apprentices studying at Higher and degree level may be able to access funding in relation to additional support, but this is available through the university and not Disabled Students Allowance. Apprentices may also be able to apply for funding for work-based equipment and software. Please contact the Disability and Learning Support team on 01273 643 799.
Living costs and benefits
Higher and degree level apprentices must fulfil the standard eligibility criteria in order to apply for means tested benefits such as Universal Credit, Child Tax Credit and Housing Benefit. If you have any questions about entitlement to benefits, please contact the Student Advice Service on 01273 642888.
Higher and degree level apprentices who are undertaking a full-time mode of study can be treated as being exempt from paying . Although some programmes require study on a day-release arrangement, this can still be classed as full-time study. You will need to obtain a letter from the Student Support Desk at any campus and send this to your Council Tax department when you enrol on the programme.
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