Clinical Placement Capacity and the Degree Apprenticeship in Diagnostic Radiography

Abstract

Aim: The aim of the poster presentation is to share early experiences of a training provider in relation to facilitating degree apprenticeships in clinical departments who already support undergraduate radiography placements. Overview: The first degree apprenticeship in diagnostic radiography commenced in March 2020 with additional programmes now coming on line. This type of programme offers an alternative, employer based, route into diagnostic radiography, providing an opportunity for upskilling existing staff as well as enabling new entrants to healthcare to learn whilst in employment. Whilst both this route and the ‘traditional’ undergraduate degree are both underpinned by degree level education, the nature of the clinical placement is different. Undergraduates have discrete clinical placements whereas apprentices are employees. This presents challenges and opportunities for clinical departments aiming to support both types of learner. The aim of this poster is to share early experiences of a training provider supporting clinical departments in meeting the needs of both type of learner in order to expand capacity.