Health and science apprenticeships

Agriculture or Horticulture Professional Advisor Apprenticeship Level 6

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What is the Agriculture or Horticulture Professional Advisor – Level 6 Apprenticeship?

The Level six Agriculture or Horticulture Professional Advisor Apprenticeship is designed to provide businesses and students with the latest scientific thinking, knowledge and skills to deliver a holistic approach to farming and agriculture in the UK.  

At the end of this thirty month course a graduating apprentice will be able to support farmers and growers maximise their crop yields utilising the best possible methods, enabling them to adapt to new regulations and policy to develop the best agricultural strategies for their businesses. 

The Level 6 Agriculture or Horticulture Professional Advisor Apprenticeship is essential for anyone who is serious about a career path in agricultural consultancy or investing in training up the next generation of cultivation experts.

What is the 10 Things about the Level 6 Agriculture or Horticulture Professional Advisor Apprenticeship that will convince you of it’s value:

Content:

  1. Learn About Agriculture And Horticulture On The Job
  2. Agriculture And Horticulture Driven By Scientific Knowledge And Research
  3. Relationships And Networking In The Agriculture And Horticulture Sector
  4. Communication
  5. Personal Development As You Become An Agriculture Or Horticulture Advisor
  6. Learn Management Skills
  7. Agriculture And Horticulture Policy And Legislation Made Easy
  8. Commercial Business Knowledge
  9. Environmental Challenges And Problem Solving
  10. Digital Systems
image shows a tractor in a field harvesting wheat from an aerial perspective
Tractor in field harvesting wheat – copyright Tomas Hertogh, unsplash.com

1. Learn About Agriculture Or Horticulture On The Job

From day one an apprentice will be interacting and getting on the job experience alongside professionals on farms, glasshouses, estates and in nurseries as well as learning from scientists, research companies and independent consultants to see first hand what modern crop growing is.

Extensive time is spent in the outdoors and on site working with plants, flowers and crops as hands-on learning is emphasised and real world experience is prioritised over theoretical understanding and classroom time, making it the perfect course for nature lovers.

Agriculture or Horticulture apprentices learn on the job. image shows scientists with plants under UV lighting
Scientists with plants under UV lighting – Copyright ThisisEngineeringRaEng, unsplash.com

2. Agriculture And Horticulture Driven By Scientific Knowledge And Research

This apprenticeship is led and directed by the latest research and insights being discovered and developed within the agricultural sector and how these new techniques are maximising yields and profit whilst minimising environmental impacts. Apprentices will find themselves at the frontier of land management as they are exposed to precision farming, scientific research and experimental farming. 

Continual professional development during the apprenticeship will ensure that apprentices have the most up to date knowledge and the skillset to continue pursuing new understandings after graduation, share expertise with their colleagues and seek out innovative solutions, implementing them at cost.

Agriculture or Horticulture apprentices learn in a data and scientific driven environment. image shows man with agricultural engineering machine in a field
Man with agricultural engineering machine in field – copyright ThisisEngineeringRaEng, unsplash.com

3. Relationships And Networking In The Agriculture And Horticulture Sector

A core part of becoming an agriculture or horticulture advisor is the ability to build trust with farmers, growers and relevant stakeholders through accountability and delivering on agreed objectives. Apprentices will learn about the agricultural sector’s values and culture and how to navigate life amongst tight knit communities, overcome local problems and challenge outdated practices without confrontation. 

The interpersonal skills that an apprentice develops will enable them to quickly build a network of clients, navigate conversations with professional bodies and identify hierarchical structures and decision-makers within organisations so they understand who to reach out to on different issues.

Agriculture or Horticulture apprentices will build relationships and network. image shows a greenhouse full of tomato plants
Greenhouse full of tomato plants – copyright Zand Photography, unsplash.com

4. Communication

Apprentices will be continuously exposed to scientific theories and will be working with complicated data sets so it is essential that they are equipped to explain complex concepts and ideas in an accessible way to a range of people. Alongside this training in complaint management procedures and protocols and utilising the correct communication channels is provided so that apprentices can resolve business problems and connect with clients in the most effective and professional way.

As an apprentice builds confidence in themselves during their training they will be able to facilitate and chair meetings on relevant issues with relevant stakeholders and help communities reach collectively agreed outcomes.

Agriculture or Horticulture apprentices will gain communication skills. image of three AI faming robots in a field tending to plants
Three AI farming robots in a field tending to plants – copyright James Baltz, unsplash.com

5. Personal Development As You Become An Agriculture Or Horticulture Advisor

This apprenticeship will enable students to understand their preferred working and learning styles so that they can be more efficient with their time and are actively encouraged to seek out feedback to help them develop their professionalism. Time management skills will also be developed so that apprentices can plan effectively for the short, medium and long term whilst gaining a flexible mindset so they can overcome any unforeseen obstacles or challenges and re-prioritise tasks when necessary. 

By the end of the apprenticeship skills such as self-reflection and evaluation will be second nature to an apprentice who will be able to identify successes and areas for improvement and how best to achieve goals and optimum outcomes on projects.

image shows a man watering in a commercial greenhouse
Watering in a commercial greenhouse – Zoe Schaeffer, unsplash.com

6. Learn Management Skills

Through self-development apprentices will be able to recognise different ways of working and preferred methods of communicating, enabling them to facilitate the best working environment and training for others. Apprentices will also be able to support a wider team to meet deadlines and manage workloads and help more junior co-workers create personal development plans, sharing their knowledge, expertise and best practice with them. 

Apprentices will learn how to employ active listening, ask appropriate questions and influence others in order to gain relevant information and reach the best solution for the farmer or grower and guide stakeholders to the most effective outcome.

  • Agriculture or Horticulture apprentices will learn management skills. Image shows field of rolled hay bales
Field of rolled hay bales – copyright Nick Fewings, unsplash.com

7. Agriculture And Horticulture Policy And Legislation Made Easy

Through integrated learning, apprentices will gain comprehensive understanding of policies and legislation that affect the agricultural sector and how any national or international changes will impact the nature of their work. This is essential learning as a large part of an adviser’s career is to provide guidance on  best practices and how farmers and growers can maximise yields whilst complying with legislation, regulations and environmental policy. 

Health and safety and risk analysis is incredibly important for an advisor to understand thoroughly as industrial chemicals will be a part of their work, from storing materials correctly to being able to read labels and symbols to providing necessary reports, apprentices learn all aspects of this so that they can do their job safely, protecting themselves and others.

image shows seedlings being tended by a horticulturalist
Seedlings being tended by a horticulturalist – copyright Joshua Lanzarini, unsplash.com

8. Commercial Business Knowledge

Commercial business management skills for running farms and nurseries alongside financial land management will become second nature to apprentices as they learn during the course. Graduates will be able to calculate costs, negotiate and understand the financial implications of their advice and decision making and how it can impact on farmers and growers. 

An apprentice will gain a working knowledge of how to deliver on business outcomes in appropriate time-frames without compromising business values or culture whilst remaining GDPR compliant.

  • Agriculture or Horticulture apprentices will learn commercial business knowledge. image shows man in white coat with tray of plants
Man in white coat with tray of plants – copyright ThisisEngineeringRaEng, unsplash.com

9. Environmental Challenges And Problem Solving

Uncontrollable variables such as the weather, seasonality and climate change are inevitable challenges that an agricultural or horticultural advisor must attempt to mitigate whether through working with nature or taking steps to move crops into controllable environments such as glasshouses. 

An example of the type of work an apprentice might undertake to overcome poor crop growth might involve taking a soil sample and analysing it in a laboratory environment to understand pH, soil type, erosion and nutrient deficiencies. The apprentice will explore if the soil can be treated to improve harvests or if a different type of crop should be grown instead, weighing up the pros and cons to advise the farmer or grower appropriately.

Apprentices will explore how to overcome major pests that threaten UK crops and minimise damage whilst avoiding the development of pesticide resistant strains of weeds, insects and diseases, a difficult balance to find.

Agriculture or Horticulture apprentices will learn about environmental challenges. Image shows a lavender field with a red telephone box
lavender field with red telephone box – copyright Abhishek Banik, unsplash.com

10. Digital Systems

Digital systems such as Management Information Systems have become an integral part of modern farming and enable agriculturalists to record and analyse data to make scientific decisions and implement strategies based on the results. An apprentice will be able to deliver the best solutions for farmers and growers through their understanding of these digital systems, producing comprehensive reports for clients that deliver tangible results, improving yields for everyone.

Image shows a tractor farming with a ploughing attachment in a field
A tractor farming with a ploughing attachment in a field – copyright Luke Thornton, unsplash.com

What next?

If you are keen to read about this apprenticeship in more detail and learning about entry requirements  we recommend checking out this page on the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education website where they break down key skills and knowledge that students will learn.

We wish you the best of luck with your apprenticeship journey!

Level 6 Diagnostic Radiographer Apprenticeship

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Does obtaining images of a high diagnostic quality, using a range of complex imaging equipment sound good to you? Read more below on a level 6 integrated degree in diagnostic radiography.

Jobs and criteria for level 6 Diagnostic Radiographer

This occupation is found in all healthcare settings, this apprenticeship provides opportunities for an apprentice to learn excellent patient care by obtaining images of high quality. You will use a range of high cost and complex imaging equipment. This includes x-rays, cross sectional methods and Radiology. Diagnostic radiographer salaries in the UK average at £44k proving that this can be an effective career choice. The Diagnostic radiographer works independently to assess, authorise and obtain consent for examination request for procedures. If you are a physical and kind natured person this is the job for you as it entails direct patient contact.

The entry requirements for the apprenticeship are Accessed by individual HEIs. A level 2 English and maths are a priority for this role. For those with an education in health and care, the minimum requirement is entry Level 3. The duration of this apprenticeship is 36 months, in this time you will communicate with patients and collate record information.

Funding

Funding for a Level 6 diagnostic radiographer they are allowing maximum £24,000.

Responsibilities and daily workload

The main role of a Diagnostic radiographer is to use images from examinations to determine the appropriate actions. An employee in this occupation will be responsible for the safe use of imaging equipment and conduct of examinations. It is expected to contribute to a 24 hour, 7 day a week service with various shift patterns. You will primarily work in diagnostic imaging departments in hospitals. You will provide diagnostics on wards including, ICU, emergency department and operating theatres. As an Diagnostic you will have great understanding of imaging modalities and how you can help a patient to diagnose what is wrong with them.

As a part of your role, you have to carry out duties that will come towards competencies. Few duties are:

  • Clinically asses patient condition
  • Move imaging equipment safely
  • Evaluate images according to clinical criteria
  • Assist in procedures in Ultrasounds, MRI

KSB:

Knowledge has 27 competencies that you will have to cover within the apprenticeship. Some examples below:

  • Knowledge of different roles and scopes of practice.
  • Know of current trends.
  • Knowledge of patient confidentially and awareness of responsibility to maintain it.
  • Knowledge of the principles of radiobiological science.

Skills has 19 competencies that you will have to learn. Some examples below:

  • Assess image technical standard.
  • Read and critically analyse research articles.
  • Undertake basic patient observations.
  • Manage time and prioritise workload.

Behaviours, has 7 competencies, that you will need to act on. Examples below:

  • Confident, flexible.
  • Act with professionalism.
  • Demonstrate a calm demeanor with empathy and compassion.
  • Actively reflect and accept criticism.

These are all very important to learn, know and accept. Please see more on KSBs here: Diagnostic radiographer (integrated degree) / Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education

Diagnostic Knowledge and EPA

To show that you understand the knowledge covered on the level 6 diagnostic radiographer apprenticeship, you will need to complete the required modules: Assessment documents and be registered with the health and care council.

Conclusion

A level 6 apprenticeship will be an excellent progression in your career. Employers are keen to use apprenticeships to train and shape employees in a way that sets them up for the future and success. The job roles that will open over the years for a Diagnostic radiographer will be endless! Keep in touch and find Apprenticetips at LinkedIn

An Apprenticeship as an Ambulance support worker could be the career for you

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If you are a caring individual with good communication skills looking to kick start a career in the Health and Science sector than this may be the right career path for you. The benefits to undertaking an apprenticeship as ambulance support worker are endless. In this blog post we will be showing some of the benefits to undertaking this Apprenticeship.

Ambulance support worker apprenticeship''

Firstly, as an apprentice you have the ability to gain experience whilst earning a living – this is a great way not only to earn a good wage, but also gain the relevant qualifications needed to kick start your career within the Health Sector. As an ambulance support worker you will be required to respond to 999 emergency calls, unscheduled calls from the public and care communities to provide care and clinical support to individuals from a range of different ages and backgrounds. There will be a range of different settings you will be required to work in; it may be on call to an emergency or providing support to the head clinician in both emergency and non-urgent situations.

This is a key role in maintaining function within the NHS. It is a role that many apprentices find rewarding and satisfying since they are providing such a vital role within the NHS. The NHS is a key part in keeping the UK running and you have the ability to be one of these inspirational key workers. As an Apprentice you will be provided with endless support and guidance from a range of different staff members within the NHS. In addition, tutors from your apprenticeship provider are there to provide support for you when needed. Whether its support with course work needed, further career advice or just a soundboard for advise during stressful times – you have support from a range of experienced staff members.

''NHS apprenticeships''

Qualifications earned

At the end of your apprenticeship you will be rewarded with either one of the following in ambulance care: Diploma in Ambulance Emergency and Urgent Care Support Certificate in Ambulance Patient Care, Urgent Care Services, Award in Ambulance Patient Care: Non-Urgent Care Services Certificate in Ambulance Patient Care: Non-Urgent Care Service.

As well as another qualification in either level 3 Certificate in Emergency Response Ambulance Driving or level 3 Award in Patient Care Services: Ambulance Driving. These are amazing qualification’s for you to gain. It can open a world of doors for within the health and science sector as you can either continue to develop your career further as support worker for Ambulance work or move into a different region with the NHS for example becoming a porter.

Qualifications Needed for this Apprenticeship

All you need to be able to apply for this apprenticeship is a Level 2 in English and Maths, as well as a full DVLA approved driving license. So if you think this is the right career for you then please head over to GOV website and this list will show if any providers are currently offering this type of Apprenticeship. Please also check out the mailing list over on our main web page to receive further updates on apprenticeships available to you.

Good luck on your Apprenticeship career, hope this blog helped.

Level 5 Technician Scientist Apprenticeship

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Laboratory background and white text saying “Level 5 Technician Scientist Apprenticeship” with science graphics.

Further your career in science with this Level 5 Technician Scientist Apprenticeship 

Have you completed a qualification within science and are wondering where to go next? Do you love working in a lab? If so, read on, because a career as a technician might be what you’re looking for – and the Level 5 technician scientist apprenticeship can help you get there. A lab based role, you’ll be at the heart of scientific experiment.

Role overview 

The Level 5 Technician Scientist apprenticeship aims to give you with the knowledge needed to carry out basic scientific experimentation within a lab environment. You’ll be working in a dynamic team of scientists to learn specialised skills and procedures. This largely depends on your company’s research area. This role requires you to employ excellent critical thinking and decision making skills to improve your research. This apprenticeship takes place typically over 36 months. Successful completion makes you eligible to register with professional scientific bodies like The Science Council for Registered Scientists (RSci), making you recognised within your field. Typically, a qualified technician scientist in the UK has a salary ranging from anywhere between £17,500 to £40,000. That is depending on your skills and experience, meaning that there is plenty of room for progression up to management level roles.

Entry requirements

As this is an advanced apprenticeship, you must have a Higher National Diploma or a Foundation Degree. It should be in a science or technology discipline that is relevant to the specific job role you are applying to. If you’re unsure about your experience, this is something you might want to contact the employer to discuss. This experience will provide you with the UCAS points necessary for a higher education programme like this. You will also need to have a Grade C or above in at least 5 GCSE’s – this includes English, maths and a science. 

A female scientist in a laboratory looks through a microscope.
As a Level 5 Technician Scientist Apprentice, you will be working in a laboratory.

Core competencies

Your employer will want you to demonstrate specific knowledge, skills and behaviours before starting your apprenticeship. Most of these you should have experience with based on your completion of a qualification within sciences already, so not to worry. Some of the most important examples include:

  • Knowing the most basic lab and scientific techniques for experimentation, including appropriate health and safety.
  • Good theoretical knowledge in the sciences.
  • An ability to understand and analyse data, using computer based tools where you need to. 
  • Plan and implement projects to a high standard independently, including keeping to any necessary regulations. 
  • Work well as part of a team, contributing to new processes and recommendations.
  • Be able to find solutions to problems.
  • Be a good communicator. Both to scientific and non-scientific audiences, be able to listen, write and present in a way that meets your goals. 

This is just an overview of the most important skills for the role. Prior to any applications you should have a thorough read through the occupational standard, brief and assessment plan related to this apprenticeship so that you can feel confident you fit the criteria set out.

Assessment plan

The main method of assessment throughout the duration of this apprenticeship is in the form of on-the-job training. There is an expectation that you will be evaluated on your skills at regular points within this time. there would be a workplace based project to evaluate your problem solving towards the end of your apprenticeship. This is to prepare you for your end point assessment (EPA). This will consist of a workplace problem solving project and report, followed by a discussion and presentation on which you’d be graded. There is also a vocational competence discussion. Your employer and apprenticeship provider would provide you with the support you need to be able to complete these successfully.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for the next step in your career within science, you can see that the Level 5 technician scientist apprenticeship can act as an excellent route into the lab. This apprenticeship values the skills and learning you have developed in previous roles. It aims to qualify you to work more independently in a research setting.

Competition for these roles is often high, and a recognised qualification such as an apprenticeship can help set you apart from other candidates. Following completion of level 5, there is potential for you to progress onto a Laboratory Scientist level 6 apprenticeship. This is the equivalent of a degree qualification and could open you up to progressing to management level.

If you want to hear about similar exciting apprenticeships in the future, sign up to our mailing list here.

Level 6 Operating Department Practitioner Integrated Degree Apprenticeship

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Apprenticeships are becoming more popular compared to 20 years ago with invaluable experience being vital for industries nowadays. An Apprenticeship can land you with both feet in a job, a potential degree and no debt with both on and off the job learning.

So the answer to your question is yes, that’s right, apprenticeships also are up and coming within the medical industry too. Is ensuring people’s wellbeing and health of importance to you? Then an Operating Department Practitioner may be the right fit for you! This blog will explain what having an integrated degree apprenticeship as an Operating Department Practitioner takes and can bring you. 

apprenticeship Operating department practitioner Room Stock Photos, Pictures & Royalty-Free Images - iStock

Qualification requirements

Apprentices will be required to complete a Health & Care Professions Council approved BSc (Hons) in Operating Department Practice. Level 2 English & maths will need to be achieved prior to completing the end-point assessment, if not already. For those with an education, health & care plan or a legacy statement, the English & maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. British Sign Language qualifications are also an alternative to English qualifications for whom this is their primary language.

  • 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A levels, or equivalent, for a degree apprenticeship
  • When applying for courses and jobs within the NHS, you’ll be expected to have an understanding of how NHS values apply in your job.

Duration time: Typically 4 years

The Apprenticeship 

Operating Department Practitioners (ODPs) are registered healthcare professionals specialising in caring for people of all ages throughout surgery. ODPs therefore mainly work in operating departments. ODPs must continually make professional decisions to ensure the patient receives the best care before, during and after their surgery. They must use evidence based practice to inform & evaluate the effectiveness of the actions they take with the aim of continually improving outcomes for patients. They are responsible for ensuring their own professional knowledge and skills through continuous professional development (CPD) & support the development of others.

*instituteforapprenticeships image of the apprenticeship journey. 

The apprentice must meet the 15 standards as set out in the Care Certificate[i] within 3 months of commencing an apprenticeship.

Level 6 Operating Department Practitioner Competencies  

Medical and Surgical Skills Program for All Aspiring Medical Professionals (July 2021 USA-EST/PST) apprenticeships operating department practitioner

Professional practice – Practice as an autonomous ODP, assessing patients in theatres & associated areas, exercising professional judgement to establish patient centred goals, & to accept, plan, initiate, modify, refer or cease treatment within prescribed limits

Professional values & behaviours – Practice in a manner ensuring equality & act as an advocate for patients. Demonstrate care, compassion, confidence, courage, communication & commitment for patients at their most vulnerable.

Professional standards – Practice within the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) Standards of Proficiency for ODP’s[i] & The College of Operating Department Practitioners Scope of Practice[ii]

Leadership, management & partnership working – Work collaboratively throughout the patients perioperative journey with the surgical team & others while understanding how to maintain oneself’s wellbeing also. 

Communication & information – Apply a range of communication strategies & skills within the multidisciplinary team to ensure patient safety & dignity

After apprenticeship care: Career path & progression

The starter salary of an ODP is around £25,600 and reaches to around £39k plus with years of experience and working hours from 38-40 a week. With experience, you may be able to progress to team leader or senior ODP and manage an operating theatre unit.

You may like to take further training approved by the Royal College of Surgeons to work as surgical care practitioners. This would give you the skills to complete some surgical procedures, under the supervision of a consultant surgeon. There is also room to train to work as an anaesthesia associate or advanced critical care practitioner.

Conclusion

A Level 6 Operating Department Practitioner Degree Apprenticeship is the level up that anyone interested in the medical profession needs if wanting to balance practical experience and be debt free. This apprenticeship encapsulates core responsibilities and skills. Some examples such as practising national health standards, assessing patients needs and care and gaining invaluable practical knowledge for life. Using these skills, it can set apprentices on track for a steady career within the NHS or even private medical care. Start laying the foundation for your future today as an Operating department practitioner. 

Or to find out more about what apprenticeships are available to you, check out more of our blogs here https://www.apprenticetips.com/category/apprenticeships-uk/

Dental Technician Apprenticeship – Level 5

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Image of a female dental nurse operating a machine.
Empower yourself and others with a career in dentistry.

Have you ever wanted to work in the dental industry? If this Dental Technician Apprenticeship sounds like something you would be interested in, read on to find out more!

What is a Dental Technician?

Dental Technicians are responsible for designing, creating and modifying cosmetic dental appliances such as crowns, bridges and dentures. A Dental Technician work closely with dentists to produce this under prescription from dentists within a dental laboratory. Dental Technicians combine scientific knowledge with engineering precision to create and deliver the highest quality dental appliances. The role requires attention to detail, artistry and dexterity.

What will you do as a Dental Technician?

As a Dental Technician apprentice you will design, manufacture, modify and repair custom-made dental appliances. Typically the work is undertaken in a dental laboratory on a prescription from a dentist. The work can broadly be split into crown & bridge, dentures and orthodontics; most labs specialise in one or two of these areas but during the apprenticeship Dental Technicians will develop competency across all disciplines from start to finish before choosing if/where to specialise once they are qualified.

All Dental Technicians are professionals who work in accordance with the General Dental Council (GDC).

What are the main responsibilities

The main role of a Dental Technician apprentice is to help build prostheses for patients seen by the dentist/dental surgery. Your day to day tasks may include:

  • designing, making, modifying and repairing custom dental devices
  • using precision equipment and tools
  • shaping materials like gold, porcelain and plastic

plus much more!

Skills you will gain during the apprentieship

Below are some of the skills you will learn during the apprenticeship

  • Advising the prescribing dentist on appropriate dental devices based on dentist input, while recognising oral limitations and their effect on devices. Evaluate, for individual patients, the need for more complex treatment and seek advice from the dentist or more experienced Dental Technicians as appropriate.
  • Designing, manufacturing, assessing, repairing, modifying and providing biomechanically sound custom- made dental devices in the following three different areas
  • Assessing impressions, models and finished devices as well as the fitness for purpose of devices and propose alternatives where necessary, in line with patient prescription, and formally recording these decisions as for MDD requirements

Behaviours that are needed for the apprenticeship

  • Proactive in their own development, willing to commit to lifelong learning by use of a Personal Development Plan (PDP), personal reflection and continuous improvement.
  • Recognise and act within GDC standards, ethical guidance, information governance and relevant laws.
  • Willing to give and receive feedback effectively and tactfully within the wider dental team; taking responsibility for establishing personal networks with dental professionals, specialists and other relevant individuals and organisations.
  • Ready to take responsibility for integrity of completed work.

For more information about this apprenticeship, you can check out the Dental Technician (Integrated) Standard, as well as the assessment plan to understand how you should prepare for end-point assessment.

Entry Requirements

To apply for this apprenticeship you will need to have A Levels or relevant Level 3 qualifications. Employers who train apprentices without English and Math’s GCSE at Grade 5 or above must ensure that the apprentice achieves this during the course prior to completion.

Conclusion

The Dental Technician Level 5 apprenticeship is a 36 months long course. If you are looking for a health and science apprenticeship that will help you excel in the health and science sector, please apply for this opportunity through ApprenticeTips and start your future today!

To subscribe to our mailing list or see other vacancies that we currently have available please visit our site ApprenticeTips.com

Level 3 Laboratory Technician Apprenticeship

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Are you interested in working at the head of technology to carry out laboratory experiments and improve system performance across the work environment? If so, carry on reading to find out how the Level 3 Laboratory Technician apprenticeship could be right for you.

Man looking into a microscope with his colleague
Man looking into a microscope with his colleague

Key Roles and Responsibilities of a laboratory technician apprentice

A Laboratory Technician apprentice can be found in a wide variety of organisations including chemical, biotechnology, and nuclear companies. The primary role of a laboratory technician is to proactively identify areas for business improvement and discover solutions to problems. The typical laboratory technician is able to work both individually and also as part of a team, with minimum supervision and is able to take responsibility for the quality of their own work. As a laboratory technician, you will need to follow quality procedures and methods to meet the highest requirements relevant to your work.

As part of your job role, you will have to carry out duties such as:

  • Applying regulatory health and safety procedures when performing and preparing laboratory experiments
  • Demonstrating use of a Laboratory Information Management System and handling accurate records of laboratory work that has been undertaken
  • Preparing and performing laboratory experiments and tasks following specified methods to provide reliable and accurate data
  • Applying scientific statistical techniques for data presentation
  • Identifying problems and selecting appropriate scientific methods to recognise causes and reach solutions
  • Participating in improving business performance by analysing schemes to aid workplace systems and processes

Additionally you will need demonstrate the following behaviours:

  • Effective teamwork with the ability of working independently and taking responsibility for initiating and completing tasks to the highest standard
  • Demonstrate reliability and integrity in regards to confidentiality on work related & personal matters
  • Interact with others when working in a team and respect equality and diversity within the work environment
  • Evaluate data, recognise and call attention to anomalies or unusual results
  • Use standard applications and software packages e.g. Microsoft Office suite

For more information about this apprenticeship, you can check out the Laboratory Technician Occupational Standard as well as the assessment plan to understand what you should do to prepare for end-point assessment.

Man and woman doing an experiment
Man and woman doing an experiment
Entry Requirements and assessment:

For apprentices without level 2 English and Maths, you will need to achieve this prior to taking the End-Point Assessment (EPA). A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification can alternatively be used for those whose primary language is BSL.

Full time apprentices will typically spend 24 months on-programme (before gateway) working towards the occupational standard, with a minimum of 20% off-the-job training. All apprentices must spend a minimum of 12 months on-programme.

The End-point assessment is an assessment of the knowledge and skills that have been learnt throughout the apprenticeship and tests the apprentice’s ability to apply them in the workplace. This will be observed during your normal work hours by an independent assessor, and will consist of the following:

  1. A multiple choice test consisting of 40 questions
  2. An observation of practice undertaken in the workplace
  3. A portfolio of evidence completed by the apprentice and an interview.
Conclusion

As you can see, the Level 3 Laboratory Technician apprenticeship is a great introduction for anyone who is interested in a career in health and science. If you are looking for an health and science apprenticeship that will help you excel in the health and science sector, then please apply for this opportunity through Apprentice Now and start your future today!

If you feel like this is not what you are looking for then here are some other healthcare-related apprenticeships that may be a better fit:

Level 2 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship

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A display of eye glasses

Are you an enthusiastic individual who enjoys interacting with people and has an interest in health and science? If so, the Level 2 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship could be perfect for you. Read on to find out more about how to start or progress your career within the optical retail industry and help customers find suitable glasses.

What is an Optical Assistant Apprenticeship?

An Optical Assistant Apprenticeship will provide you with a broad range of skills and technical knowledge about spectacle frame materials, fitting requirements, and optical lenses. You will also learn how to use an extensive range of equipment and tools to take measurements, adjust and repair spectacles.

In addition to the comprehensive range of knowledge you will gain, you will also develop a vast range of skills to be able to work within the optical retail industry. Some of these include strong communication, listening skills and a passion for working with others to deliver excellent service and products.

The duration of the apprenticeship typically takes a minimum of 12 months to complete and apprentices without Level 1 English and match will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End Point Assessment as well as sitting Level 2.

Key responsibilities of an Optical Assistant

Alongside the broad range of knowledge and skills requirements mentioned above, there are key responsibilities that apply for all Optical Assistants regardless of whether you work within a small practice, large practice or within the domiciliary environment.

An Optical Assistant is always required to interpret and understand a clinically issued prescription, its effects on the eye, and the customer’s vision. They need to be able to identify the appropriate spectacles to meet the customer’s needs and be able to explain the features and benefits of these, using non-technical and customer friendly language.

It is an Optical Assistant’s responsibility to ensure the maximum comfort of the spectacle frame for the customer, avoiding physical damage to the skin through ill-fitting or the wrong material choice.

An Optical Assistant Apprentice using technical equipment

Level 2 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship Competencies

As part of your apprenticeship and job role, you will need to evidence your knowledge, and skills throughout the programme and in the end-point assessment. Some examples of the areas of standard are:

  • Health and safety: Maintaining safe working practices and identifying risks or dangers to self, customers, or colleagues.
  • Materials of frames and lenses: Identifying, explaining, recommending suitable frame and lens materials based on customer needs and requirements.
  • Tools and equipment: Confidently and correctly using a wide range of optical tools and equipment.
  • Quality and governance: Working to the appropriate company quality standards and systems.
  • Screening checks: Clearly explaining screening checks, the reasons they are done and how the machinery works.
  • Customer interactions, dispensing, fitting and adjustment of spectacles: Building rapport and trust with the customer and identifying their communication preferences.

Additionally, you will also be required to demonstrate the following behaviours:

  • Professionalism
  • Self-development
  • Safety orientated

The occupational standard, assessment plan and occupational brief for the Optical Assistant Apprenticeship will provide more detail of these areas of standard and the competencies in more detail. It also outlines the skills, knowledge, and behaviours within the standard and the grading differences between a distinction, pass or fail.

For a more technical overview of this apprenticeship, you can view the full assessment plan here. This document will help you understand what you can do to prepare for the end-point assessment.

Conclusion

As demonstrated, the Level 2 Optical Assistant Apprenticeship is an excellent opportunity for individuals looking to start or develop their career within the optical retail industry. As well as developing your skillset and technical knowledge, you will also be able to earn while you learn.

If this apprenticeship isn’t quite right for you, take a look at this Level 3 Spectacle Maker Apprenticeship.

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Sporting Excellence Professional – Level 3

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sporting professionals engaging in football
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Are you a keen sporting individual with an interest in developing your skills to a professional level? Does the idea of competing in your chosen sport excite you? Would you like a build a team of your own working with other professionals such as managers, psychologists, and nutritionists? If you answered yes to all of these questions, read on to find out why a Level 3 Sporting Excellence Professional Apprenticeship might be the perfect next step for you!

What Does a Typical Day Look Like for a Sporting Excellence Professional?

A typical day in this role lacks is never boring as you’ll be interacting with a variety of people every day. This ranged from coaches and sporting officials, all the way to external broadcasters and fans. Alongside the face-to-face interactions, you need to be equally committed to your training and development. Above all, a high level of mental and physical fitness is imperative, alongside being socially responsible. This is key to a great performance both on and off the pitch.

Due to how diverse this apprenticeship is, there is not one job title to fit all. However, these are some typical job titles e.g. dressage rider, professional footballer, professional cricketer, show jumper, and eventer.

Entry Requirements for a Sporting Excellence Professional Apprenticeship

Individual employers will set their own entry requirements in conjunction with the National Governing Body/League for your chosen sporting pathway. Bear in mind that Level 2 English and Maths will need to be achieved before taking the End Point Assessment. So, if you need some extra time to complete these, please factor this in.

Core Occupational Duties

During this 18-month apprenticeship, you will be trained and assessed against the core occupational duties as well as an option sport of your choice. This gives you an opportunity to develop yourself as a general sporting professional, whilst also specialising in an individual strength area. Read on to the next section for more detail about the specialised pathways.

Being a sporting professional comes with lots of responsibilities; 15 core duties to be precise. But don’t worry, the great thing about this apprenticeship is that you can develop these as you go along – meaning you’ll be an expert in no time! Some examples of your duties are to:

  • Represent in your chosen sport at a high level
  • Undertake daily training routines to ensure constant development and retention of key skills needed to perform at a professional level
  • Make a note of activities to help monitor your performance
  • Understand relevant statistics to help with goal setting and performance
  • Work with key team members such as nutritionists and psychologists to ensure your performance is at its best

Specialised Option Duties

This apprenticeship requires you to choose a sport to specialise in and focus your training and development around. Regardless of the specialised sporting path you choose to take, the core duties mentioned previously will remain the same.

The option sports and some key duties are listed below:

  1. Football
    • Learn and showcase tactical skills to enhance football performance
    • Review performances to recognise strengths and areas for development for future matches.
  2. Cricket
    • Abide by relevant and legal cricketing procedures
    • Learn and showcase tactical skills to enhance cricketing performance
  3. Rugby League
    • Review performances to recognise strengths and areas for development for future matches.
    • Undertake pre and post-match procedures
  4. Rugby Union
    • Learn and showcase tactical skills to enhance rugby union performance
    • Review performances to recognise strengths and areas for development for future matches.
  5. Equestrian
    • Responsible for the welfare of the horses and for reporting any changes in their health
    • Ensuring riding conditions are optimal and safe, monitoring factors such as weather and surfaces
Sporting professional in gym

How you will be Assessed

Eventually you will be assessed via three EPA methods: a knowledge test, practical observation with questions, and a professional interview – resulting in a combined final grade of a fail, pass, or distinction.

Conclusion

The Level 3 Sporting Excellence Professional Apprenticeship is a great choice for someone wanting to further develop and excel in a sporting area they already have a great passion for. And it certainly doesn’t stop there! There are plenty more sporting opportunities to get stuck into after the 18-month period has ended – like this Level 4 Sports Coach opportunity! If this is something that you’re interested in, sign up to the newsletter below to get all the latest updates sent to your inbox.

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Level 3 Dental Nurse

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Have you always wanted a career in the healthcare industry but you’re not sure where to start? Has the dental industry always been appealing to you but you don’t want to go to university? Well, the answers to those questions lie within this article, exploring the role of a Level 3 Dental Nurse and how an apprenticeship could be the perfect choice for you to kickstart your career.

Summary of the Role

A role of a dental nurse is an understated one, yet crucial in enabling dental professionals to deliver efficient and accurate services to patients. The primary purpose of the role is to provide chair side support to dentists and other professionals, working with them to provide patients with a high standard of oral healthcare, including keeping records and dictating notes on behalf of the dentist. Maintaining high standards of cleanliness and infection control are also important aspects of the role as dental nurses are responsible for the preparation, sterilisation and disposal of instruments, materials and medicaments used in dental procedures to ensure that all services undertaken are safe and hygienic. Other responsibilities include carrying out stock control and enforcing patient safety in the practice during their visits.

Image of a female dental nurse operating a machine.
Empower yourself and others with a career in dentistry.

Dental nurses work in clinical environments that could be located in NHS general dental practices or hospitals serving the community, as well as private or specialist practices. Dental nurses interact with patients of all ages, genders, backgrounds and cultures with varying beliefs, as well as other members of the practice team, such as receptionists or specialists. In more specific cases, they may also be required to interact with schools, the prison service or the military service.

Dental nurses are registered professionals and work within the standards and scope of practice as defined by the General Dental Council Scope of Practice document.

Knowledge and Skills you will gain

  • Acquire knowledge of the dental and regional anatomy
  • Knowledge of the wider dental and healthcare system
  • Understand legislation, policy and procedures outlined in the GDC
  • Provide chair side support during dental procedures
  • Communicate appropriately, effectively and sensitively at all times
  • Respect patients’ dignity and choices and act without discrimination
  • Effectively manage own time and resources

Qualifications required

Level 2 English* & Maths

*British Sign Language qualification as an alternative

Other details

Duration – 18 months

Occupational Level – Level 3

Regulatory body – General Dental Council

Upon completion of the apprenticeship, you will be awarded with a Level 3 qualification for entry to the professional register as a dental nurse.

Conclusion

The Level 3 Dental Nurse apprenticeship is a fantastic opportunity for ambitious and driven individuals to get your foot in the door in the healthcare industry and opens up a plethora of opportunities to continue your career path such as branching out into an Oral Health Practitioner role. This apprenticeship will provide you with key skills and knowledge that will help you to excel and flourish in the health and sciences sector and provide meaningful and appreciated care to the community.

Image of a female dental nurse handing a toothbrush and toothpaste to a young girl.
Give back to the community with a career in dentistry.

If after reading you’ve decided this might not be best for you, don’t fear! Click here to find out more information on different apprenticeships to help you determine which one is right for you.

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