Healthcare science assistant
Level 2 · IntermediateHealth and science 1.2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
The Healthcare Science Assistant apprenticeship at Level 2 introduces you to the laboratory, imaging, and physiological measurement departments that support diagnosis and treatment in the NHS. You will help scientists and technicians prepare samples, maintain equipment, and support patients undergoing diagnostic tests. It is a practical entry point into a career in healthcare science, with pathways to higher apprenticeships in areas such as pathology, audiology, and clinical physiology.
On the job
What you’ll learn
The role of healthcare science departments in patient care
Safe handling and processing of blood, tissue, and body fluid samples
Basic laboratory techniques and equipment maintenance
Patient communication and dignity in clinical settings
Infection prevention and decontamination procedures
Record-keeping, data entry, and patient confidentiality
Health and safety including COSHH in laboratory environments
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Receive, label, and log clinical samples accurately
Prepare samples and reagents for scientific testing
Clean and maintain laboratory equipment and workspaces
Assist with patient-facing procedures under supervision
Stock and rotate consumables and reagent supplies
Complete records and data entry in laboratory systems
Follow waste disposal and decontamination procedures
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 2 (Intermediate) - roughly GCSE level. Often open with few or no formal qualifications - a strong first step. Some employers ask for a couple of GCSEs.
What’s next: Typically leads on to a Level 3 (Advanced) apprenticeship.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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