Frequently Asked Questions – Nursing Associate (updated May 2019 for GPNs)

Nursing Associates: who are they?

  1. In 2017 the Government announced the creation of the Nursing Associate role. The role is bridging the gap between health care support worker and registered nurse and helping meet the changing health and care needs of patients and the public.
  2. Read more about the role at nmc.org.uk/nursingassociates Nursing Associate is a stand-alone role as well as also providing a route to Registered Nurse. The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) became the legal regulator of this new role in July 2018.
  3. The first trainee nursing associates (around 2000 across England) registered with the NMC in January 2019 and joined a new Nursing Associate section of the register. 2018 saw a further 5,000 trainees start educational programmes with a further 7,500 planned for 2019.

 What Nursing Associates will know?

  1. The NMC has set standards  for nursing associates and Nursing Associate programmes. Read more about the Nursing Associate standards at nmc.org.uk/standards-for-nursing-associates These set out what a Nursing Associates should know and be able to do when they join our register.  Further education and experience will allow for role development. Nurse leaders across England have been clear that the intention is for Nursing Associates to support, not substitute, registered nurses.

 Who can become a Nursing Associate?

  1. Anyone can apply to become a nursing associate apprentice provided they meet the entry requirements, contract requirements and will have access to clinical learning environment. Ideally the role is suited to those in clinical support roles e.g. Care Support Worker, Health Care Assistant, Health Care Practitioner.  Phlebotomists and receptionists are able to train as nursing associates but would need to move into a role that would support the developmental nature of the role

 

What are the differences between Assistant Practitioner training and the Nursing Associate Programme?

The Nursing Associate programme is generic, focusing on the delivery of holistic care to service users. A trainee will have placements in their normal place of work and in hospital, at home and close to home settings. The Assistant Practitioner training is focused around a specific speciality.

What does study at Level 5 mean?

Level 5 relates to the following awards: Foundation Degrees, Diplomas of Higher Education, and Higher National Diplomas.

If you want to understand how this award fits with the whole education framework go to https://www.qaa.ac.uk/quality-code/higher-education-credit-framework-for-england

How much does it cost to train?

  1. Training is via apprenticeship and the maximum funding band is £15,000
  2. The apprenticeship fees can be paid through the Apprenticeship Levy (for businesses with a salary bill greater than £3m) or via government co-investment (for small businesses). As of April 2019 small businesses are liable for 5% of the maximum funding costs paid via the digital apprenticeship service.

 How long is the training?

  1. The minimum time for the Nursing Associate apprenticeship is 24months. This is dependant on the apprentice working full time (30+ hrs per week).  The training will take longer if the apprentice work less than 30hrs per week.

 What support is required during the apprenticeship?

  1. Apprentices are required to have 20% off-the-job learning (e.g. attendance at University, study days)
  2. Apprentices take part in ‘work-based learning’ on-the-job. They will need to be supported by a Practice Supervisor and Practice Assessor in the workplace. Regular supervision and coaching will be required.

 What University does a Nursing Associate attend?

  1. Levy-paying organisations can use University of Worcester or Open University
  2. Non levy-paying organisations can access the Open University

What are the entry requirements?

  1. Employers are free to set their own entry criteria over and above the minimum. The minimum requirements are
    1. GCSE C or above English (or equivalent)
    2. GCSE C or above Maths (or equivalent)
    3. Care Certificate or adequate health and care experience
    4. Ability to study at Level 5

How do interested persons apply?

  1. Applications are via the employer to the University. Applicants must have full support of employer and partners to undertake apprenticeship.  Applicants are likely to have to undertake a University interview and application demonstrating ability to undertake course.
 

How much do Nursing Associate apprentices get paid?

  1. This is dependant on your employer. Apprentices must be paid whilst undertaking an apprenticeship.  Employers set their own pay rates.  Salary costs throughout the duration of the two-year period will need be met by the employing practice.

How will I be assessed during the Nursing Associate Programme?

Throughout the 2 year programme you will be assessed in both clinical practice and in the University. You will be assessed using the following methods:

Practice / Work-based assessments
Reflective Essays
OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Exam)Exams
Presentations

(this list is not exhaustive)

Will my terms and conditions change whilst I am on the Training Programme?

Whilst you are on the training programme you will be seconded to a training agreement. Should you fail to complete the Nursing Associate course then you will revert back to substantive employment post. This will be at the same band as you were prior to starting the Nursing Associate programme, however you will not be guaranteed to return to the position you left.

Will there be an opportunity to join another Nursing Associate programme in the future?

Yes. Firstly discuss your aspirations with your line manager and seek their support. Then contact the lead for apprenticeships in your organisation to express your interest and they will then be able to discuss the process with your further.

When qualified will I automatically get a band 4 Nursing Associate Role?

On successful completion of the programme, including End-Point Assessment and registration with the NMC, you will have the opportunity to commence a Nursing Associate position. All the employer partners are committed to the development of the Nursing Associate role and on completion of the programme you will be advised of where these roles will be.

Will I work shifts during my training?

Yes, throughout your training you will continue to work at your base (this may be different to your current work base), alongside attending university and placements; you will be expected to work the shift pattern required to deliver the clinical service. This may include 12.5hr shifts, nights and weekends.

Can I use a Nursing Associate qualification to access pre-registration nurse training?

Yes, your level 5 foundation degree will be eligible for APEL up to 50% of pre-registration Nurse training. We don’t have any further details yet, but we are looking at this and further details will be made available once known.

Is the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) involved in the development of Nursing Associate role?

Yes. The NMC continue to work with Health Education England and the Government and assess training providers to ensure they meet NMC requirements.

For more information please visit

  1. Read more about becoming a Nursing Associate at nmc.org.uk/becoming-a-nursing-associate/
  2. Read more about the employer guide at https://www.nhsemployers.org/nursingassociates
  3. For the Nursing Associate (NMC 2018) Apprenticeship Standard https://www.instituteforapprenticeships.org/apprenticeship-standards/nursing-associate/
  4. For more information on funding and the levy https://www.skillsforcare.org.uk/Recruitment-support/Recruitment-planning/Funded-recruitment-and-development-initiatives.aspx