Mammography associate
Level 4 · HigherHealth and science 1 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
A mammography associate carries out mammography imaging as part of the NHS breast cancer screening programme or in symptomatic breast units, positioning patients and acquiring high-quality X-ray images under the supervision and governance of a radiographer. At level 4, apprentices develop clinical skills, patient communication, and image quality assessment. The role leads to senior mammography associate or transfer to full radiography training pathways.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Anatomy and physiology of the breast and how it relates to mammographic imaging
Radiation protection principles and legislation including IRR17 and IR(ME)R
Patient positioning techniques for standard and supplementary mammography views
Image quality assessment and how to recognise technical faults requiring a repeat
Data protection and information governance as applied to patient images and records
How to care for patients with anxiety, disability, or previous cancer experience
Quality assurance procedures for mammography equipment
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Greet and prepare patients for mammography, explaining the procedure sensitively
Position patients and compress breast tissue to obtain diagnostic-quality images
Assess images immediately after acquisition for quality and report technical problems
Maintain accurate records on the radiology information and image management systems
Carry out routine quality assurance tests on mammography equipment
Follow radiation protection protocols and ensure patient dose is as low as reasonably practicable
Refer patients to the supervising radiographer for clinical concerns or complex cases
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 4 (Higher) - roughly Foundation-degree level. Usually needs Level 3 (A-levels, a T-Level, or an Advanced apprenticeship) or relevant experience.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 5/6 apprenticeship or a more senior role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
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What it’s really like
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