Advanced Clinical Practitioners (ACPs) are a relatively new career pathway which was introduced following the success of the Advanced Nurse Practitioner role in heath provision. Trainee ACPs can be from a variety of multi-professional backgrounds bringing with them a wealth of clinical experience. ACPs are part of Government plans to modernise and transform the health service and will help to meet ongoing changes and challenges of the NHS, including increasing service provision to meet the needs of patients in a variety of clinical settings. With a decrease in medical provision, increased patient demand, ageing populations, patients with multiple co-morbidities, complexity and poly- pharmacy ACPs provide holistic clinical care to enhance the patient experience and improve health and social care outcomes. Advanced practice in all fields requires expert clinical, leadership and education skills underpinned by high quality research and evidence base to support practice developments. The course challenges the depth and breadth of your knowledge and supports you to demonstrate a high level of practice so you can function at the leading edge of advanced practice.
The apprenticeship course provides the opportunity for experienced registered healthcare professionals to gain 180 FHEQ level 7 credits and a Master of Science award. It is designed to provide those who are working as ACP apprentices, with an opportunity to develop the knowledge, skills, behaviours and values required to meet the Institute for Apprenticeships Advanced Clinical Practice Standard and for an Advanced Clinical Practitioner role as part of the health and social care workforce.
The complexity of the course requires you to apply advanced theoretical knowledge in your clinical practice. To achieve this, you will study part-time for three years, attending the University for the equivalent of one day per week (minimum 20% out of practice training). The expected length of time to complete the course will be detailed in the Commitment Statement (Individual Learning Plan) agreed by the apprentice, employer and the University following your Initial Needs Assessment.
