An exciting opportunity has arisen within Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, for up to 2 colleagues to join us as a BSc (Hons) -Operating Department Practitioner Degree Apprentice in association with Bournemouth University.
If you enjoy working within a multidisciplinary team and have a keen interest in providing best quality care for patients and their relatives, this exciting new career pathway may be the job for you.
This BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice Degree Apprenticeship is a work-based integrated degree, which enables you to become an Operating Department Practitioner, whilst being employed within the operating theatre. Upon completion of the BSc (Hons) in Operating Department Practice Degree Apprenticeship and successful registration with the HCPC as an Operating Department Practitioner, you will be able to apply for a band 5 ODP job contract.
You will be supported in developing your post registration skills and competencies further which will allow you to progress in your career after completing the apprenticeship.
Non UK National applicants - must also have a valid and eligible residency status to gain entry onto the apprenticeship, in most cases have been resident in the UK for at least 3 years and have the right to remain (it is vital to ensure that the duration of your visa outlasts that of the apprenticeship) Please see apprenticeship funding rules Apprenticeship funding rules 2025 to 2026.
**SFT would not be able to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship for this role.**
We are looking for enthusiastic, proactive and motivated individuals to undertake the Operating Department Practice Degree Apprenticeship.
You will learn a diverse set of skills in anaesthetics, surgery and recovery which will allow you to gain an insight into all three of those clinical specialties.
The ODP Apprenticeship is a new and exciting route of working towards a professional registration with the Health and Care Professions Council as a qualified Operating Department Practitioner (ODP). ODPs provide highly skilled patient centred care in all areas of the perioperative department and beyond.
The ODP Apprenticeship allows you to combine work and clinical placement learning with academic study to achieve the required 20% off the job apprenticeship training.
You will be employed as part of the theatre team as an ODP Apprentice on a 3-year fixed term Band 3 contract and will be working predominately in the perioperative environment.
Please view the course content and eligibility etc - BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice | Bournemouth University
You will be required to travel to the University campus as required throughout the duration of the training.
Through our apprenticeship programmes, individuals can earn a salary, develop their skills, and achieve a nationally recognised qualification, all whilst contributing towards delivering excellent patient care.
As an organisation the NHS offers a wide range of benefits including flexible working, pension contributions, market leading annual leave allowance, career progression and regular conversations, not to mention our Blue Light Card and NHS Discounts.
We have six active and impactful colleague networks. These networks provide a safe space for colleagues to share their experiences and learn from one another, but also influence change across our trust:
Multicultural Network
Women's Network
Armed Forces' Network
LGBTQ+ Network
Lived Experience Network, for colleagues living with disabilities
Autistic Colleague Network
Somerset is a rural community served by several Community Hospital sites in addition to Musgrove Park Hospital which is only a short walk from the centre of Taunton. Local to two Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, less than one hour from celebrated secluded beaches of Devon and Dorset. With award-winning schools & rolling countryside it's no surprise that Somerset is the choice for those in search of the perfect work-life balance.
This is a developmental training role, for individuals to study a BSc (Hons) in Operating Department Practice Degree Apprenticeship.
BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice | Bournemouth University
The apprenticeship combines academic and work-based learning which will be supported by the Trust and the University throughout the program
Students undertaking this role will be expected to:
Work in accordance with the HCPC's Standards of proficiency (2014) and the HCPC's Guidance on conduct and ethics for students (2016)
Actively pursue all opportunities and use protected learning time to develop and consolidate competencies to prepare for a successful application to the HCPC for registration.
Maintain patient safety and provide a high standard and quality of patient-centred care.
Ensure compliance of the apprenticeship including attending 20% off the job training and review meetings as set
For the main duties and responsibilities for this role please read the attached job description and person specification. When completing your application please ensure your supporting statement reflects the criteria set out in these documents by showing how your experience and skills apply to this post.
Non UK National applicants - must also have a valid and eligible residency status to gain entry onto the apprenticeship, in most cases have been resident in the UK for at least 3 years and have the right to remain (it is vital to ensure that the duration of your visa outlasts that of the apprenticeship) Please see apprenticeship funding rules Apprenticeship funding rules 2025 to 2026
Eligibility checks, and verification of qualifications will be completed by the Trust and University, and all places are conditional and subject to this confirmation.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION - Please ensure that you hold the necessary qualifications and certification as detailed in the University entry requirements before applying.
If you no longer have a copy of your certificate, you can obtain a replacement via the link below:
https://www.gov.uk/replacement-exam-certificate
**Please note: this advertised vacancy does not meet the UKVI eligibility requirements for a Skilled Worker Visa and therefore SFT would not be able to issue a Certificate of Sponsorship for this role.**
104 - 120 UCAS Points in healthcare or associated subject OR Level 3 in Healthcare or associated subject
GCSE or equivalent grade 4/C or above in Mathematics, English Language and one other.
Evidence of good literacy and language skills
Able to drive, hold a full UK Driving licence, and be willing to travel to university and placements
Experience in Health and Social Care, e.g., previous employment, work experience, voluntary work et.
UK resident or right to remain & work in the UK and held for the previous 3 years and will also cover for the duration of the apprenticeship
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
