You can find a list of providers here

Entry Requirements

• Applicants must have Level 2 (GCSE Grade 4/C or equivalent) in both English and Maths prior to starting the programme.
• Candidates must have the right to work in the UK and be eligible for apprenticeship funding.
• Must be employed in a healthcare support role, usually in a clinical or patient-facing capacity.
• Applicants need written support from their employer or line manager to confirm readiness and support for the apprenticeship.

Application Process

• Begins with submitting an expression of interest or internal application.
• Candidates may undergo a formal interview to assess suitability, commitment, and understanding of the role.
• If GCSEs are not in place, applicants might undergo assessments and enroll in functional skills training before starting.

Programme Structure

• Typically 2 years (full-time equivalent).
• Majority of training takes place on-the-job, supported by off-the-job learning (usually 1 day per week).
• May include placements in a variety of settings outside the department (e.g., mental health, community care).
• Delivered in partnership with an approved Higher Education Institution (HEI).
• Programme concludes with an End Point Assessment (EPA) to demonstrate readiness for registration.

Role Expectations During Apprenticeship

• Candidates are expected to manage both work and academic demands.
• Candidtaes must behave in accordance with the NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council) Code of Conduct throughout.
• Candidates are expected to maintain a professional portfolio evidencing competencies and learning outcomes.

Support Provided

• Practice Supervisor & Assessor appointed in the workplace to guide and assess practice.
• Apprenticeship Lead/Education Facilitator provides academic and pastoral support throughout.
• Employers must commit to releasing the apprentice for study and placements (protected learning time).

Typical Timeline

• Application window → Functional skills check (if needed) → Employer sign-off → University enrolment and induction → Programme start → Placement rotations → Final assessment

Additional Information

• Upon successful completion, apprentices are eligible to register with the NMC as a Nursing Associate.
• This role can act as a pathway to becoming a Registered Nurse through further study (e.g., top-up degree).
• The training and examination for Functional Skills are free for learners who don’t have the required Maths/English qualifications. You can find more information at this government link.
• It’s important for you to show the core values and behaviours outlined in the NHS Constitution.

You can download a SNA Toolkit here.

You can download confirmation of 2025/26 funding here. Financial support includes:

• Student Nursing Associate – £4,245.24/year.
• Learning Disabilities Student Nursing Associate – £8,383.38/year.
• Apprenticeship levy funding for course fees up to £15,000.

The Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship (RNDA) offers a flexible pathway to a nurse degree qualification, eliminating the need for full-time University attendance. Achieving RND apprenticeship requires you to secure an apprenticeship position with an employer. Your training will encompass diverse practical settings including hospitals, GP practices, private residences, and mental health facilities. While the majority of RNDA programmes span four years, it’s possible for this duration to be shortened through Accreditation of Prior Experience and Learning (APEL) if your past learning and experience are recognised. For instance, possessing a level 5 qualification such as the Nursing Associate Degree Apprenticeship will reduce your apprenticeship to two years instead of four.

To embark on an RNDA journey, a minimum of level 3 qualifications in both Mathematics and English are typically necessary. If you hold a level 5 qualification as a Nursing Associate or Assistant Practitioner, your apprenticeship may be referred to as a ‘top-up’ RNDA or a ‘conversion’ course to become a registered nurse. Opportunities for RNDA positions can be found on the NHS Jobs website and the Government’s Find an Apprenticeship website.

The Advanced Clinical Practitioner apprenticeship is open to a wide variety of roles. Examples include:

• Registered Nurses
• Paramedics
• Physiotherapists
• Podiatrists
• Dietitians
• Pharmacists (must not already be undertaking a funded pathway e.g. CPPE)

The following West Yorkshire Universities offer the ACP Apprenticeship route:

1. University of Bradford: https://www.bradford.ac.uk/courses/apprenticeships/advanced-clinical-practice-apprenticeship/
2. University of Leeds: https://courses.leeds.ac.uk/ap11/advanced-clinical-practice-apprenticeship-msc
3. Huddersfield University: https://courses.hud.ac.uk/part-time/postgraduate/advanced-clinical-practice-apprenticeship-msc
4. Leeds Beckett University: https://www.leedsbeckett.ac.uk/courses/advanced-clinical-practice-msc/

Ten higher education institutions (HEIs) have been approved to deliver Physicians Associate Degree Apprenticeship programmes, starting from September 2023. NHS England is implementing a national framework and leading on activities designed to support employers to access these quality assured Physicians Associate (PA) degree apprenticeship training programmes.  Employers interested in offering PA Apprenticeships are strongly encouraged to undertake workforce planning without delay and identify providers.

Further information about this programme of work can be found here: https://www.hee.nhs.uk/our-work/physician-associates

The apprenticeship standard and end point assessment have been developed with approval from The Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education (Department for Education). Further information, including information on funding, other FAQs and up to date provider/course information can be found here: Physicians Associate Apprenticeship Programme

You can find a list of providers here

You can find a list of providers here

You can find a list of providers here

You can find a list of providers here

You can find a list of providers here