Embarking on a Noble Journey: The Path to Becoming a Level 6 Therapeutic Radiographer Apprentice

The transition to a career in health care is very complex, and not only does it give you professional opportunity but also the chance to make an impact on people’s lives. In this digital apprenticeship, you will have the opporuntity to acquire a multitude of skills. One of the best apprenticeships you can undertake, you will not only further your career, but be playing a vital part in the healthcare industry. The role of a therapeutic radiologist offers an unusual combination of scientific, skill and human qualities to those who are passionate about both technology and compassionate care. We’re going to look at the intriguing world of therapeutic radiographer training in this blog post, and we are going to take a close look at exciting aspects of these noble professions. You’re daily duties will typically consist of the following:

  • External beam radiotherapy, a method for delivering a beam, or several beams, of high energy X-rays to cancer cells
  • Brachytherapy, a form of radiotherapy where a sealed radiation source, eg in a needle or tube, is placed inside or next to cancer cells
  • Stereotactic radiotherapy/radiosurgery which delivers multiple beams of focused radiation
  • Proton therapy, a type of particle therapy that uses a beam of protons to deliver a radiation dose to cancer cells
  • Superficial skin radiotherapy, which uses X-rays or electrons to deliver a radiation dose to cancer cells.

Being a Therapeutic Radiographer is a nobel profession to undertake. It will entail forming many intimate relationships with those in your care, requiring you to maintain a level of professionailsm and empathy throughout. Here are a few pointers to bare in mind of how to best conduct yourself:

  • Practise safely and effectively within the scope of practice and within the legal and ethical boundaries of the profession.
  • Look after own health and wellbeing, seeking appropriate support where necessary.
  • Practise as an autonomous professional, exercising professional judgement.
  • Practise in a non-discriminatory and inclusive manner recognising the impact of culture, equality and diversity.
  • Communicate effectively, maintaining confidentiality and records appropriately.
  • Work appropriately with others.

Required Qualifications

English and Maths

Apprentices without level 2 English and maths will need to achieve this level prior to taking the End-Point Assessment. For those with an education, health and care plan or a legacy statement, the apprenticeship’s English and maths minimum requirement is Entry Level 3. A British Sign Language (BSL) qualification is an alternative to the English qualification for those whose primary language is BSL.

Other mandatory qualifications

BSc (Hons) Therapeutic Radiography or (where the apprentice already holds a level 6 honours degree) a pre-registration MSc in Therapeutic Radiography approved by the Health and Care Professions Council.

Duration (months):

36

Skills You Will Develop

  • Identify the limits of own practice and when to seek advice or refer to another professional or service.
  • Recognise the need to manage own workload and resources safely and effectively, including managing the emotional burden that comes with working in a pressured environment.
  • Keep own skills and knowledge up to date. Z
  • Maintain high standards of personal and professional conduct.

What Will You Achieve

Within 36 months you will achieve the Level 6 Diploma in Therapeutic Radiography.

Conclusion

Embarking on a Therapeutic Radiographer apprenticeship is not just a career choice; it’s a commitment to excellence, compassion, and the pursuit of knowledge. You’ve got yourself on a beautiful journey that will change the life of those who need it most, as you try to balance technology and humanity. Be ready to embark on a journey combining innovativeness, empathy and the possibility of being an important role model in health care.

Contact Us

If you have any questions regarding any of our apprenticeships please feel free to get in touch with us here!

Level 6 Diagnostic Radiographer Apprenticeship

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