ODP Apprentice

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., 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 - https://www.bournemouth.ac.uk/study/courses/bsc-hons-operating-department-practice

You will be required to travel to the University campus as required throughout the duration of the training.

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.

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.