The much maligned Jeremy Hunt has announced what appears to be a genuine innovation designed to tackle the continuing and chronic under supply of qualified nurses for the NHS.
The programme is committing to high level vocational development and a new apprenticeship standard to underpin the initiative.
The eye catching features of the initiative include:
- Those enrolling on the programme being able to stay in work as they learn
- Learners not incurring fees for the training delivered - unlike the student loan regime
- Those entering the programme being able to enter the programme at different levels subject to existing qualifications held
- Training undertaken can count towards a degree - with nursing associates required to undertake additional complementary training to achieve the required standard
- Current employers being incentivised/compensated for supporting the programme.
Well executed, this plan could help create a new model for vocational development and recruitment that other sectors could also benefit from.
Find out more at http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-38146395