Course summary

This popular University of Plymouth Pre-registration FdSc Nursing Associate apprenticeship is approved by the Nursing & Midwifery Council (NMC) and leads to eligibility for entry to the NMC professional register upon successful completion of the programme. The programme is delivered as an apprenticeship and also meets the requirements of the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education for the Nursing Associate (NMC, 2018) Standard (2019). Our programme gives both new and existing healthcare staff the opportunity to study for a fully-funded FdSc, and obtain a professional qualification and registration with the Nursing & Midwifery Council (provided all requirements are met). The programme also helps employers with workforce planning to meet current and future healthcare needs. Through the Nursing Associate higher apprenticeship, new and existing staff substantially increase their clinical knowledge, skills and professional attributes by meeting the NMC (2018) Standards of proficiency for nursing associates and practising within The Code (NMC, 2018). Through their increased capability and capacity, they positively contribute to nursing teams and patient care. Delivered by experienced Registered Nurses, the flexible, work-based programme provides apprentices with the clinical knowledge and skills to support the provision of safe, quality care across a range of healthcare settings. Apprentices will become an important part of the nursing family, supporting registered nurses and helping to make a difference to individuals, their families and communities. Taught over two-years (2,300 hours), with attendance at university one day a week. Apprentices gain experience in a variety of placements, including hospital, community, at home and others. Apprentices must also gain some experience across the four branches of nursing, including child health, mental health, learning disability and adult nursing. This apprenticeship is delivered at the following University of Plymouth campuses: Plymouth Campus Truro Campus - Knowledge Spa Exeter Campus Once qualified, Nursing Associates may work across a wide range of healthcare settings and clinical areas, including acute or community hospitals, community nursing teams and GP Practices.