The Apprentice Clinical Support Worker Programme consists of a 15 month work placement in a clinical area. During that time education and training will be provided which equips the apprentice with the skills needed to enable them to work as a Clinical Support Worker. The Apprenticeship Framework includes completion of the qualifications;
- Level 2 Diploma in Clinical Healthcare Support
- L2 Healthcare Support Worker Standard
- L1 and/or L2 Functional Skills in Maths and English
All apprentices undertake a Level 2 Diploma in Clinical Healthcare Support. The choice of Units provides the essential nursing skills, knowledge and experience needed to apply for a permanent clinical support worker post.
Throughout the Apprenticeship Programme classroom teaching is provided in most aspects of healthcare. Apprentices use an electronic portfolio to store evidence for their Diploma and all course work is submitted on line.
Apprentices must also be prepared to spend approximately 8 hours per week in their own time to complete coursework. When on placement, they are assigned a clinical educator for support.
Apprentice Clinical Support Worker (or ACSW) work as part of the nursing team on a ward. Their role is to help the nurses and Clinical Support Workers care for the patients. The types of tasks they are involved in will depend upon the ward they work on. Tasks may include helping patients with their meals, helping patients to wash, dress and use toilet facilities, helping move patients in and out of bed and making them feel comfortable. Other daily tasks may include collecting and delivering things between departments, answering the telephone and passing on messages.
This role involves delivering intimate personal care, which includes handling unpleasant body fluids. Clinical Support Workers need to demonstrate a professional attitude in this situation and respect for patient’s privacy and dignity is essential.
The Apprenticeship Programme starts with a three week induction which prepares participants for working on a ward, including learning about caring for patients, health and safety, confidentiality, safe moving and handling of patients, hand hygiene, bed making, equality & diversity and spirituality.
