Priory Group's Unique Apprenticeship Opportunity Underway

Here at the University of Bolton, we’re always looking for ways to help students and professionals progress their careers and gain real-life experience to boost their future employability. That’s why we were delighted to team up with the Priory Group to offer a unique health apprenticeship. Find out more about it below.

Background information on this exciting healthcare apprenticeship

Priory Group is the biggest independent mental health provider in the UK. We were thrilled to team up with them to form a unique partnership that has seen over 30 healthcare assistants begin work on apprenticeships to become registered mental health nurses.

It has been well-documented that there is a shortage of mental health nurses in the UK. In fact, a survey conducted in 2020 revealed that staff shortages have left mental health nurses close to breaking point. The survey, published by the British Medical Association (BMA), found that 52 per cent of nurses felt they were too busy to provide the care they would like. Furthermore, 65 per cent stated that on the last day or shift they worked, there was a shortage of at least one nursing staff member or more.

Because of this, we’re constantly looking for different ways to help students launch their careers in mental health. We know this is something Priory are incredibly passionate about as well, and they are taking numerous steps to combat this issue.

What does the BSc (Hons) Nursing (Mental Health) Degree Apprenticeship programme entail?

The 32 Healthcare Assistants taking part in this programme are going to be studying at satellite campuses situated at the Priory Kneesworth House Hospital and Priory Roehampton Hospital.

Although the apprenticeship scheme has been running since 2020, the University of Bolton got involved this year, and we have forged a long-lasting partnership with the Priory. Previously, the mental health provider was working with different educational institutions, but together we are providing a stable foundation for the future.

This is only the beginning!

Our future aim is for 45 HCAs to be sponsored to become registered mental health nurses per year. If you would like to find out more about this apprenticeship or any of the other health courses and degrees we offer here at the University of Bolton, please do not hesitate to get in touch with our friendly team today on +44 (0)1204 900 600 or by sending an email to Enquiries@bolton.ac.uk.