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    Health and science

    Are you interested in nursing for cancer patients or answering 999 calls? Maybe you want to work in a research lab or help people with their mental health? This sector is all about helping people live healthy lives.

    What is a health and science apprenticeship?

    An apprenticeship in the sector is a practical, work-based route into your chosen career. You will gain the qualifications and skills to work in the field while earning a salary and not paying tuition fees.

    Health and science covers a broad range of areas, including:

    • medicine
    • nursing
    • healthcare
    • science
    • dentistry
    • exercise and fitness

    Career opportunities from a health and science apprenticeship

    An apprenticeship in the industry can lead to a range of careers, including a:

    These are just a few examples. Health and science covers hundreds of different careers.

    Shevy is a nursing apprentice at Great Ormond Street Hospital.

    £23,055

    The average salary of a nursing apprentice
    According to Reed, correct as of January 2023

    2nd most popular sector

    Health and science was the 2nd most popular apprenticeship sector in the UK in 2021/22
    GOV.UK, correct as of January 2023

    Over 150,000

    Number of people who started a health and science apprenticeship in 2021/22
    GOV.UK, correct as of January 2023
    Head shot of Shaan, apprentice at Astrazeneca
    Shaan Gill, laboratory science apprentice at AstraZeneca

    Just be yourself, because personality is so crucial when employers are selecting apprentices. You’ll learn the skills you need to along the way, so it’s much more about whether you can demonstrate why you’re passionate about and interested in science.

    Gemma Hayward Level 6 Registered Nursing Degree Apprenticeship
    Gemma Hayward, nursing apprentice at Great Ormond Street Hospital

    There are definitely certain personality traits that are suited to healthcare roles and apprenticeships. Being proactive and organised are essential, as working and studying is challenging. But beyond that you need to have a kind and caring nature, and I’d say be quite a courageous person.

    Sara is a biology apprentice at GSK.

    Pros

    • You’ll make a difference to people's lives.
    • Every day is different.
    • You can see the outcomes of your work.

    Considerations

    • You might have to deal with emotional situations.
    • Roles often include shift work and unsociable hours.
    • Managing studying and working can be difficult.

    Who would suit a health and science apprenticeship?

    You might be interested in a health and science apprenticeship if you:

    • are passionate about helping people
    • want to positively impact the lives of people around you
    • enjoy working with people
    • are interested in science and how things work

    You might be a good fit for a health and science apprenticeship if you:

    • are caring and kind
    • can deal with emotional situations
    • like the idea of each day being different
    • can remain calm in stressful situations
    • have good attention to detail
    Two nurses walking through hospital ward

    Find out more about careers in the NHS

    The NHS offers a variety of careers in the health and science sector. Discover what roles are available and tips for applying.

    Find out more

    FAQs about health and science apprenticeships

    How do health and science apprenticeships work?

    An apprenticeship is an opportunity to work and study at the same time. You spend most of your time doing on-the-job training, and the rest is spent working towards a qualification. You get paid a salary and get dedicated study time throughout the week.

    Apprenticeships are available at a range of levels depending on the type you do.

    How long is an apprenticeship in the sector?

    The length of your apprenticeship depends on the level you’re taking. For example, a nursing degree apprenticeship could take three to six years, whereas an advanced apprenticeship could take one to two years.

    What qualifications do you need?

    Entry requirements are different depending on the role you’re interested in. For example, Level 2 apprenticeships generally need no formal qualifications, while you may need GCSEs and A levels for a degree apprenticeship.

    Remember, it’s not all about qualifications. To succeed in the role, you’ll need soft skills like passion, a caring nature, and the ability to work under pressure.
     

    What is the salary for an apprentice in the sector?

    The salary varies depending on the role you’re interested in, and every employer will pay differently. You will be paid at least the minimum wage of £4.81 per hour, but many employers offer more than this. You’ll need to have a look at some vacancies to get an idea of what the salary would be.
    Philippa Burton Level 3 Dental Nursing Apprenticeship Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
    Philippa Burton, dental nursing apprentice, Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

    I think what I love most is that I’m learning but with the benefit of being paid a salary. My apprenticeship is a pathway to a job so it feels a lot more secure than my previous jobs, plus there are loads of post-qualifications I can choose at the end to progress even further.

    Kim Hardman Associate Director and UK Apprenticeships Lead AstraZeneca
    Kim Hardman, associate director and apprenticeship lead, AstraZeneca

    The perception of apprenticeships has really changed and it’s certainly not a second-class option. Not only does it give you a science degree, but it allows you to work alongside world-leading scientists on really interesting projects that impact the world.

    Personal trainer helping a client

    Search for health and science apprenticeships

    Want to see what vacancies are out there or ready to apply? Search for your perfect apprenticeship.

    Search for vacancies
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