JourneyApprenticeshipsHearing aid dispenser

Hearing aid dispenser

Level 5 · HigherHealth and science 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship

What it involves

The Hearing Aid Dispenser apprenticeship at Level 5 trains you to assess hearing, recommend and fit hearing aids, and provide ongoing support to adults with hearing loss, qualifying you for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC). You will conduct audiological tests, take ear impressions, programme digital hearing devices, and educate clients on their use. It leads to regulated practice as a qualified hearing aid dispenser in high street audiology, private clinics, or NHS community hearing services.

On the job

What you’ll learn

Anatomy of the ear and the physiology of hearing
Pure tone audiometry and clinical assessment of hearing loss
Hearing aid technology - digital signal processing and fitting software
Ear impression taking and earmould selection
Rehabilitation strategies and communication tactics
HCPC standards of proficiency and professional ethics
Wax management and basic ear care procedures
On the job

What you’ll do day to day

Conduct pure tone audiograms and other hearing assessments
Select, programme, and fit hearing aids to individual prescriptions
Take ear impressions for custom earmoulds and devices
Follow up with clients to fine-tune fittings and resolve issues
Advise clients on hearing aid care, batteries, and accessories
Maintain accurate patient records in clinical management systems
Refer clients to audiology or ENT where clinical need requires
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 5 (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 6 (Degree) apprenticeship or a 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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