Strengthening the NHS with Derby apprenticeships

Within the healthcare industry, apprenticeships have transformed the way nursing talent is developed. In partnership with Derbyshire Community Health Services (DCHS), the University of Derby has helped create clear career pathways for healthcare apprentices, empowering staff to step into registered roles and strengthening the workforce for the future. This collaboration is not only helping individuals unlock their potential - it’s driving better patient care, improved efficiency, and sustainable services across the community.

Creating pathways and unlocking potential

Before the introduction of nursing apprenticeships, DCHS faced a clear workforce challenge. There was a widening gap between healthcare assistants (HCAs) and registered nurses. Many HCAs had years of hands-on experience, but financial and practical barriers prevented them from leaving employment to study full-time at university. This limited opportunities for progression and created increasing pressure on existing registered staff.

At the same time, the demands of community healthcare were shifting. Advanced Clinical Practitioners were sharing the complex caseloads of doctors, registered nurses were managing ever-growing patient lists, and the population was ageing. HCAs had the skill, knowledge, and dedication to step up, but no accessible route into registered practice.

Apprenticeships provided the solution. They opened a pathway for talented and experienced staff to advance their careers, while enabling the Trust to build a sustainable, highly skilled workforce for the future.

Partnering with Derby

From the outset, DCHS found the University of Derby to be a supportive and proactive partner. From application and interview stages through to ongoing progress reviews, our academic assessors provided regular guidance, constructive feedback, and approachable expertise.

The university’s involvement in recruitment has been key to success. By joining candidate interviews, DCHS managers were able to select the right people for the service while gaining a deeper understanding of the course structure and expectations. This ensured that apprentices were well-matched to both the academic demands of the programme and the clinical needs of the Trust.

On-the-job training is structured carefully. Apprentices begin by reviewing course timelines and becoming familiar with tools such as the OAR document and Pebble Pad. This planning helps them balance their academic studies with clinical responsibilities, setting them up for success.

While some apprentices have faced challenges - particularly those entering higher education for the first time - the support from both the university and DCHS has empowered them to thrive. Apprentices consistently report increased confidence, stronger clinical decision-making skills, and a sense of empowerment in their roles.

Impact delivered

The apprentices have brought fresh skills, energy, and perspectives into DCHS. Their strong clinical foundations mean they require less time to integrate into teams, while their up-to-date knowledge has introduced new approaches and service improvements.

Registered clinicians now have more capacity to focus on complex work, while apprentices contribute meaningfully from day one. The result is greater productivity, efficiency, and an improved patient experience.

“Their presence has enabled clinicians to work to the top of their scope, while apprentices contribute with confidence, energy, and the latest skills.”

Importantly, apprenticeships have supported succession planning and talent development. Graduates of the programme are not only delivering excellent care, but also helping shape services through critical thinking and innovation. Their growth in confidence, self-awareness, and technical competence has been evident - even when returning to the same teams, they have stepped into new levels of responsibility with professionalism and assurance.

This has strengthened the DCHS's long-term sustainability, ensuring it can continue delivering preventative, patient-centred care that aligns with the NHS 10-year plan.

Advice to Other Employers

For DCHS, investing in apprenticeships has been transformative. The programme has improved patient care, strengthened workforce sustainability, and supported staff to achieve their full potential.

“By investing in training people to the best of their ability, we secure the future of nursing practice.”

DCHS strongly encourages other employers to consider apprenticeships as part of their workforce strategy. For them, the most rewarding aspect has been seeing individuals grow, both personally and professionally, while directly improving the quality of care delivered in their communities.