Student Nursing Associate Apprenticeship | Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust

Pennine Care NHS FT; Ashton-under-Lyne; On-site; GBP 10,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent healthcare provider in Ashton-under-Lyne is offering a Nursing Associate apprenticeship that leads to a fully funded Foundation Degree. This program combines academic learning with practical experience across various healthcare settings. Ideal candidates will have GCSEs in Maths and English, and must demonstrate an ability to study at diploma level. The role requires a commitment to complete the program, which includes multiple clinical placements. Applications should be submitted by December 12, 2025.

Qualifications

• Must provide educational certificates at the interview.
• Healthcare experience is an advantage but not essential.
• Ability to study at Diploma level is required.

Responsibilities

• Complete a Foundation Degree as a Nursing Associate.
• Engage in clinical placements across various settings.
• Commit to 80% clinical work and 20% academic study.

Skills

Intermediate IT skills

Education

GCSEs Grade C or above in Maths and English Language

New GCSE Grade 4–9 in Maths and English Language

Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths and English

Job description

Overview

Looking to start your career in Nursing? We provide resources to help you apply and prepare for your SNA interview. Please complete this short form to access these support materials.

The Apprenticeship programme leads to a Foundation Degree as a Nursing Associate, with tuition fees fully funded. This programme combines academic learning with hands‑on experience across physical, psychological, and public health care—from pre‑conception to end of life.

All successful clinical candidates will be employed on a fixed‑term contract for 25 months.

Qualifications

• Essential: GCSEs Grade C or above in Maths and English Language OR New GCSE Grade 4–9 in Maths and English Language OR Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths and English (not Entry Level 2)
• Important: Educational certificates must be shown at interview. Transcripts or provisional statements of results will not be accepted. If you have already achieved a Level 4 qualification, you must provide copies of certificates at interview.

Program Details

• Shortlisted candidates will be informed after 27th November 2025.
• In‑person assessment centre expected on or around 4th and 5th December.
• The programme starts on 9 March 2026 and includes multiple clinical placements (Adult, Mental Health, Child, and Learning Disability; Care at home, close to home, and within hospital settings).
• Time commitment: 80% clinical work, 20% academic study (one day per week, block release, or a mix of both).
• You must demonstrate the ability to study at Diploma level and commit to completing a Foundation Degree Apprenticeship.
• Healthcare experience is an advantage but not essential.
• Intermediate IT skills are required.

Employment & Sponsorship

The Nursing Associate role bridges the gap between a support worker and a Registered Nurse, creating a skilled workforce for future healthcare.

Eligibility for Non‑UK Nationals: You must meet the eligibility criteria and settlement requirements for apprenticeship course funding. Your settlement status will need to be verified by the apprenticeship provider before you can formally enrol.

The training provider will require evidence of: Visa duration– your visa must cover the entire length of the course. Residency– you must have lived in the UK for a minimum of 3 years prior to enrolment.

This role may be eligible for sponsorship in certain circumstances. For more details, please refer to: https://www.gov.uk/health-care-worker-visa/your-job

Equal Opportunity

All individuals regardless of race, age, disability, ethnicity, nationality, gender, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, religion or belief, marriage and civil partnership are encouraged to apply for this post. We would also encourage applications from individuals with a lived experience of mental illness, either individually or as a carer.

Closing Date

This advert closes on Friday 12 Dec 2025.