The challenge to attract younger people to the health sector workforce is being met head-on as more youngsters are successfully completing apprenticeships.
In England and Wales alone, 500 apprentices per month are being awarded completion certificates in Health and Social Care, Dental Nursing, Pharmacy Support and Support Services in Healthcare Apprenticeships - a significant six-fold increase over the last seven years.
For employers supporting apprentices in their workforce, this could mean a reduction in skills shortages, recruitment savings and a more stable and productive workforce.
In Scotland we are now managing the registration and certification of Pharmacy Technicians, along with the running of the Pharmacy Modern Apprenticeship (MS) Framework. It is aimed at Level 3 Pharmacy Technicians who may work in hospitals, the community or larger pharmaceutical retailers.
Later in the year we expect to take over full management of the Scotland-wide online apprenticeship database, previously hosted by SSACOT. The database will allow direct registrations and certifications of Modern Apprenticeships and will link with SSCs and training providers.
Skills for Health has developed an extensive Employers Guide on Health and Social Care Apprenticeships, outlining all aspects of offering apprenticeships including details of case studies, available funding and benefits.
