Apprentice Prosthetist/Orthotist
Band 4 – Fixed Term 3-year Contract
An opportunity to join a specialist and rewarding profession
We are looking to recruit a motivated, compassionate and practical individual to join our Prosthetics and Orthotics service as an Apprentice Prosthetist / Orthotist.
This is an exciting opportunity to train in a small but highly specialist allied health profession that combines clinical assessment, biomechanics, rehabilitation, technical design and problem-solving. Prosthetists and Orthotists work with people of all ages who require artificial limbs, braces, splints, footwear, insoles or other externally applied devices to improve mobility, function, comfort, independence and quality of life.
The successful applicant will be employed within our service while completing the Level 6 Prosthetist and Orthotist Degree Apprenticeship with the University of Derby. On successful completion of the programme, the apprentice will achieve a BSc qualification and be eligible to apply for registration with the Health and Care Professions Council as a Prosthetist / Orthotist.
About the role
You will work as part of a multidisciplinary clinical and technical team, supporting the assessment, prescription, design, fitting, review and evaluation of prosthetic and orthotic interventions. You will gain supervised experience across a range of clinical areas, which may include prosthetic rehabilitation, foot and ankle orthotics, spinal orthotics, paediatrics, neurology, diabetic foot care, musculoskeletal conditions and complex disability.
The role will involve a blend of workplace learning, university study, clinical supervision and practical skills development. You will be expected to build knowledge in anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, materials, manufacturing processes, evidence-based practice, communication, professional standards and person-centred care.
What we offer
- A structured apprenticeship route into a nationally recognised allied health profession.
- Supervised clinical and technical experience within a specialist Prosthetics and Orthotics service.
- Support from experienced Prosthetists, Orthotists, technicians and wider healthcare colleagues.
- Protected learning time in line with apprenticeship requirements.
- Exposure to a broad range of patients, conditions, clinical pathways and device types.
- A meaningful career pathway with long-term opportunities in the NHS, independent sector, rehabilitation services, research, education, leadership and innovation.
We are looking for someone who
- Has a genuine interest in healthcare, rehabilitation, movement, design and helping people improve function.
- Communicates well with patients, families, carers and colleagues.
- Is practical, observant and able to problem-solve.
- Can manage study alongside workplace responsibilities.
- Demonstrates professionalism, compassion, reliability and attention to detail.
- Is committed to completing a degree apprenticeship and developing into a registered Prosthetist / Orthotist.
- Meets the entry requirements set by the employer and the University of Derby, including appropriate English and maths requirements.
