Nursing associate (NMC 2018)
Level 5 · HigherHealth and science 2 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
Nursing associates are healthcare professionals who bridge the gap between healthcare support workers and registered nurses, delivering direct patient care across NHS and independent settings. Apprentices complete a two-year programme leading to NMC registration as a nursing associate, gaining clinical experience in hospital wards, GP practices, mental health, and community settings. The role enables progression to registered nurse training.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Anatomy, physiology, and common health conditions
Nursing procedures including observations, wound care, and catheterisation
Person-centred care, dignity, and patient communication
Medicines management under supervision
NMC Code and professional and legal responsibilities
Working in multi-disciplinary health and care teams
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Carry out clinical observations and record patient vital signs
Assist with personal care, feeding, and mobility
Administer medicines under registered nurse supervision
Perform wound dressings and basic nursing procedures
Communicate with patients, families, and the care team
Write accurate care records and escalate concerns promptly
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.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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