The Nursing Associate role is a standalone profession designed to bridge the gap between healthcare assistants and registered nurses. It is currently available only in England and is registered by the Nursing & Midwifery Council.
As the role is generic, registered nursing associates can work in any of the four fields of nursing: adult, children, mental health, and learning disabilities. Training also takes place across these four fields meaning upon qualifying, nursing associates have gained lots of practical, observational, and theoretical experience of working with a diverse group of patients and service users.
Training
Trainee Nursing Associates (TNA) typically undertake a two year apprenticeship leading to a Foundation Degree upon completion of the course. Training consists of university, placements, and working in a base area. Most TNA’s work 37.5 are contracted to work 37.5 hours per week, although fewer hours are often accommodated.
How To Get Started
Courses are delivered in partnership between an employer and a training provider. Searching NHS Jobs for Trainee Nursing Associate will list all the NHS employers currently recruiting for the role. You can also view training providers offering the course to see what is available in your local area. Your local NHS Trust should also be able to provide information on the recruitment options available. Check out my interview tips based on my own experience and that of many other trainee and registered nursing associates.
Qualifications
GCSEs Grade A-C in Maths and English or key skills level 2 in Maths and English. These are the required qualifications to train as a nursing associate.
Although many employers will prefer that you have some previous healthcare experience, lacking this is not an obstacle to becoming a trainee. Being able to demonstrate an understanding of the fundamentals of nursing and having a good understanding of the role is also important. If you lack healthcare experience, consider reflecting on any transferable skills you may have, such as caring for a family member, volunteering, retail or hospitality experience, team working and time management skills you may have.
Where Does It Lead
Upon qualifying, registered nursing associates are usually employed on band 4 of the Agenda for Change scheme if working within the NHS. Other employers, including GP practices typically have their own pay structure. As a registered nursing associate you can work in any of the four fields of nursing, although if you progress to a registered nurse you will need to select a field in the same way as student nurses. Once qualified, there is no limit to the progression available to you: many nursing associates stay within the role while others will “top up” to registered nurse.
