Apprentices

St George’s works in partnership with a number of Training Providers to recruit and develop people across a variety of specialties across all Trust sites. We have been employing apprentices directly for over three years now and more than 50 young people have joined us as a result.

At St George’s we recognise the benefits of apprentices to ourselves and to the people and communities we serve. An apprenticeship gives you the opportunity to:

  • Work alongside experienced staff.
  • Learn and enhance practical skills and knowledge related to specific jobs.
  • Gain work experience and a nationally recognised qualification.
  • Earn a salary and have paid holidays.
  • Progress your career.

The Education and Skills Funding Agency requires all Public Sector bodies to publish statistics on apprenticeships in the Trust:

  • on 31 March 2018, the percentage of total headcount that were apprentices was 0.54%
  • on 31 March 2020, the percentage of total headcount that were apprentices was 0.85%
  • Over the 2 years, this represents an increase of over 50%, towards achieving an overall target of 2.3%

What is an Apprenticeship?

An apprenticeship is a qualification for which you study whilst holding down a real and relevant job – “earn while you learn”.  It lasts for a minimum of 15 months and there are no age restrictions or entry requirements, other than proven competence in English and Maths. So whether you are looking for an alternative to university or if you seek a career change, an apprenticeship could be for you.

At St George’s we are keen to attract high-calibre candidates, especially from diverse backgrounds, with great potential to develop a career in the healthcare sector.

What support will be available?

As part of your apprenticeship you follow a structured programme to ensure you achieve success.

You will have an on-job mentor and advice and support from our partner providers, so there is always someone to go to turn to for help and advice.

You will be allowed to spend 20% of your working hours to devote to your studies.  This will comprise on and off-the-job learning activities as well as attendance in the classroom as required by your Training Provider.

You will attend monthly progress reviews with your manager and assessor to ensure that you are supported at each stage of your apprenticeship from settling in on your first day to any concerns that you may encounter on your learning journey.

What qualification will I have at the end of my apprenticeship?

This will depend on the nature of the apprenticeship but each programme will provide a minimum of Level 3, or equivalent, along with job related support and development.

What opportunities we offer at St George’s?

Examples of posts already available on the scheme are Receptionists, Technicians, Clinic Administrators and Pharmacy Assistants.

There are now levels of apprenticeships available for all levels from entry through to degree-level corresponding to job roles across the organisation.

How much will I get paid?

During your apprenticeship, you will earn over £16,000 per annum.  From the date you start your apprenticeship you will be entitled to the same staff benefits as any other employee.  Benefits can include on-site nurseries, a childcare voucher scheme, high street discounts at local outlets and a 30% discount on Oyster Travelcards.

Is an apprenticeship at St George’s right for me?

Apprentices are fully supported by the Trust; however, it is important to know that this is an exciting opportunity of which you must take full ownership.  We expect our apprentices to share our values and behaviours, show enthusiasm in wishing to learn and commit fully to completing your qualification.

What will the recruitment and selection process consist of?

We have a robust matching process to link the right apprentices with the right vacancy. We will normally interview two or three people for each post, with the line managers making the final decision.

How can I apply for an apprenticeship?

All of our apprenticeship opportunities are advertised via this website, click ‘work with us’ and then ‘job opportunities’.