Arts therapist
Level 7 · Degree (Master’s)Health and science 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
An arts therapist - working as an art therapist, music therapist, or dramatherapist - uses creative processes therapeutically to support clients with mental health, emotional, or psychological difficulties in settings such as the NHS, schools, or private practice. This master's-level apprenticeship leads to Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration as a qualified arts therapist. Registered practitioners can work with children, adults, or specialist populations across health, education, and social care.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Theoretical foundations of art, music, or drama therapy modalities
Clinical assessment and formulation using creative therapeutic approaches
The therapeutic relationship and professional boundaries in arts therapy
HCPC standards of proficiency and professional conduct requirements
Group and individual session planning and facilitation
Reflective practice, clinical supervision, and self-care for therapists
Working with diverse populations and trauma-informed practice
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Plan and deliver individual or group arts therapy sessions for clients
Assess clients using creative methods and develop therapeutic formulations
Maintain clinical records, case notes, and risk assessments
Attend regular clinical supervision to reflect on practice
Liaise with multidisciplinary teams including psychologists and social workers
Adapt sessions to meet the individual needs and responses of clients
Contribute to service audits and quality improvement in the clinical setting
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 7 (Degree (Master’s)) - roughly Master’s-degree level. Usually needs a relevant degree or Level 6 qualification, or significant experience.
What’s next: Leads into senior and chartered professional roles.
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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