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Build your career through apprenticeships

Through the Trust’s apprenticeship programme, we not only give people the opportunity to take the first steps in their career with the NHS, but it also enables our own staff the opportunity to develop their skills.

There are four main apprenticeship levels across the NHS, each one opening new doors:

Intermediate Apprenticeship (Level 2)

Equivalent to: 5 GCSEs (grades 9–4 or A*–C)
Ideal if you’re starting out or changing direction. Build essential skills with practical, real-world experience.

Advanced Apprenticeship (Level 3)

Equivalent to: 2 A-levels
Step up your responsibilities, gain deeper knowledge, and move towards supervisory or skilled roles.

Higher Apprenticeship (Levels 4–7)

Equivalent to: Foundation degree and above
For those ready to move into more professional roles or leadership pathways.

Degree Apprenticeship (Levels 6-7)

Equivalent to: A full bachelor’s or master’s degree
Earn a university-level qualification while working. This is a brilliant option for clinical and non-clinical roles alike.

How our apprenticeships work

An apprenticeship is a paid training role that combines hands-on experience with structured study. You’ll be employed, earning a wage while you learn, and benefit from both on-the-job and off-the-job training. Dedicated study time will be built into your working week to help you complete your qualification, so you can maintain a healthy work/life balance.

Throughout your apprenticeship, you’ll be fully supported by both a workplace mentor and a training provider or tutor.

Here’s what you can expect:

  • Earn while you learn with practical, hands-on experience from day one
  • Paid study time with a local training provider to support your learning
  • One-to-one mentoring from experienced NHS professionals
  • Nationally recognised qualifications that stay with you for life
  • Transferable skills that open doors across healthcare and beyond
  • Get student discounts with an NUS Apprenticeship Extra Card

Early careers apprenticeships

Our Early Careers apprenticeships are ideal for individuals at the beginning of their career journey with the Trust, with the aim of progressing into a permanent role upon completion.

We offer apprenticeships at both Level 2 and Level 3, depending on the role:

  • Level 2 apprenticeships prepare you for our entry level positions.

  • Level 3 apprenticeships, classed as advanced, require more experience or qualifications to start but prepare you for more complex roles in the organisation.

These are paid training opportunities that combine real work experience with structured learning. You’ll benefit from dedicated study time during your working week to support your qualification, helping you grow your skills while maintaining a healthy work/life balance.

We regularly offer Early Careers apprenticeships across a range of departments. Current areas include:

  • Healthcare Assistant

  • Business and Administration

  • Finance (including AAT)

  • Procurement

  • Data & Digital

  • Human Resources

Want to see what’s possible? Read the inspiring stories on this page to hear directly from our apprentices.

 

How to apply for an early career apprenticeship

You don’t need healthcare experience to begin an NHS apprenticeship, just the right mindset and a few key requirements:

  • You must be 16 or over
  • You must live in England and have lived in the UK for at least 3 years
  • We would like you to demonstrate a good level of maths and English via GCSE or Functional Skills qualifications.

Apprenticeship opportunities are advertised on the  NHS jobs website throughout the year. If there aren’t any live vacancies right now, don’t worry, more will be available soon. You can also set up job alerts on NHS Jobs so you don’t miss new openings.

If you have any questions, you can email the Apprenticeship Team.  They’ll be happy to help you.

Early career apprentices – inspiring stories

“The support I’ve received has been incredible. Whenever I’m learning something new, my manager and the team are always there to help and guide me, showing me new skills and encouraging my growth.”

Iga Lotycz,
IT Apprentice.

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“I chose to do an apprenticeship with the Trust because of the valuable experience I could gain. Having focused my education on IT and Computer Science, I was excited to see this apprenticeship opportunity. It meant not only gaining hands-on work experience across different teams but also earning a certificate that will really support my future career.

“The support I’ve received has been incredible. Whenever I’m learning something new, my manager and the team are always there to help and guide me, showing me new skills and encouraging my growth.

“One moment I’m particularly proud of was during a busy day in A&E when we had some unexpected issues with the software. My manager and I spent the morning troubleshooting the issue, and I was able to stay calm and focused despite the pressure. It was a great learning experience.

“So far, I’ve had the chance to explore different areas of IT, from application support to digital engineering. I’ve learned skills I wouldn’t have been able to pick up on my own, like building laptops and creating software packages.

“If someone I knew was thinking about an apprenticeship here, I would wholeheartedly recommend it. Everyone is welcoming and supportive, offering plenty of one-to-one help not just with work but also with personal challenges.

“The Trust’s values really come through in everything we do. Despite being young and less experienced, I feel respected and valued in a diverse and caring workplace.”

“I’ve earned, learned, and grown so much—all without the debt. That’s what makes apprenticeships such an incredible opportunity.”

Sophie Hooper,
Financial Management Assistant.

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“For me, an apprenticeship isn’t just about gaining qualifications, it’s about becoming a more well-rounded professional. I’ve developed the ability to prioritise, stay adaptable, and take ownership of my learning.

“I’ve learned how to work collaboratively with teams across the Trust and contribute to decisions that ultimately affect patient care, even though I’m not in a clinical role.

“A huge benefit has been the opportunity to study without the financial burden of traditional university routes. I’ve been able to earn, learn, and grow at the same time, and I’m really grateful for that.

“One of the things I value most is applying what I learn straight into my role. It’s helped me see how finance supports the Trust’s broader goals and how my work contributes to delivering the best care possible. Through study days at First Intuition in Bristol, I’ve also built connections with other apprentices. Experiencing different perspectives has really expanded my understanding.

“There have definitely been tough moments, especially balancing study and work during exam periods. But with determination and support from my team, I’ve kept pushing forward, and I’m proud of what I’ve achieved so far.

“If you’re thinking about an apprenticeship, I’d say ‘go for it!’ It’s an incredible way to build your future, grow in confidence, and gain real-world experience in a supportive environment.

“Looking ahead, I’m excited to complete my qualifications and continue developing my career in NHS finance. There’s still so much to learn and so much I want to contribute.”

Useful resources to discover more

For more information, you can find out about the 350+ careers in the NHS by visiting Step into the NHS.

Photograph of a young HCSW smiling at work. photo captured with her in the ward, behind her features medical equipment slight blurred.

Shape your career paths with apprenticeships

At Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust, we’re committed to developing our people. Whether you’re looking to step into leadership, move into a new specialism, or gain a professional qualification, our wide range of apprenticeships can help you build your skills, confidence, and career. These programmes are designed to support staff across all roles—clinical and non-clinical, at every stage of their journey with us.

“Apprenticeships have really opened doors. They have given me the opportunity to push forward with my career and discover what kind of nurse I want to be.”

Sophia Bennett,
Registered Nurse Degree Apprentice.

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“I joined Worcestershire Acute Hospitals in May 2020 and completed my Nursing Associate Apprenticeship with the University of Worcester. The apprenticeship gave me real hands-on experience and the confidence to grow. It showed me what kind of nurse I want to be and pushed me to keep moving forward.

“Nursing has been my passion since I left school. I love working closely with a team and making a difference in patients’ lives. It’s not always easy, but the challenges have made me stronger and more determined.

“Because of the apprenticeship, I’ve been able to learn on the job while gaining valuable qualifications. That support has meant everything to me. Now, I’m excited to be studying the Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship at Birmingham City University, taking the next step in my nursing career.

“I’d recommend apprenticeships to anyone thinking about healthcare. They’re a fantastic way to learn, gain experience, and build a real future doing something you care about.”

“I was thrilled to be awarded Management Apprentice of the Year award. It’s a real privilege to be recognised, and it shows just how valuable apprenticeships are.”

Jen Wood,
Senior Sister, Emergency Department.

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“Working at Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust and taking part in the management apprenticeship has been a fantastic experience for me. When I was appointed Senior Sister in the Emergency Department, I hadn’t had any formal management or leadership training. The apprenticeship gave me the tools and knowledge I needed to lead confidently and effectively.

“I’m proud of what I’ve achieved through the programme. It’s really boosted my confidence and helped me become a better leader for my team. Throughout the apprenticeship, I saw the Trust’s values in action—being open and honest by encouraging clear communication and support, showing respect by valuing each person’s unique perspective, and making sure everyone feels cared for in a kind and compassionate environment. These values have shaped how I lead and work with my team every day.

“I was honoured to be named Management Apprentice of the Year at the Herefordshire and Worcestershire Group Training Association’s Annual Apprentice Awards.  It’s a real privilege to be recognised, and it shows just how valuable apprenticeships are for career development.”