Catriona Hynes, senior lecturer in diagnostic imaging at Sheffield Hallam University, explores the details and practicalities of ultrasound degree apprenticeships.
Ms Hynes said: “I love being a sonographer because it is a varied and challenging role, where there is always something new to learn.”
This article will outline six key points followed by four reflection points to enhance your knowledge of sonography and ultrasound degree apprenticeships.
Six key points
- The BSc (Hons) Medical Ultrasound (Degree Apprenticeship) introduced at Sheffield Hallam University in 2023 is the first of its kind, and the first sonography BSc (Hons) programme to receive CASE accreditation nationally.
- The development of the occupational standards for ultrasound and the Sonographer Career Framework, provided an opportunity to increase the number of sonographers in the workforce.
- This new programme is a landmark shift in the education and training of the future sonography workforce which should encourage recruitment from a larger and more diverse pool of candidates.
- The course is aligned to the Sonographer Career Framework, with graduates joining the workforce as Practitioners who can then work towards achieving Enhanced or Advanced practitioner status through further learning and experience.
- Post qualification, the BSc (Hons) degree apprenticeship aligns well with the Preceptorship & Capability Development Framework for Sonographers (BMUS, 2022).
- Apprenticeships are employer led – to find out more about available funding and processes contact your local NHS Apprenticeship Lead.
Reflection prompts:
- Do you know the details of the sonographer apprenticeship national standard?
- How might the introduction of this tiered professional structure impact on your local department?
- Do you understand the structure and implications of the Sonographer Career Framework?
- How can you support the learning and development needs of your local learners? Do you know of and/or use the Preceptorship & Capability Development Framework for Sonographers?
Useful Resources:
British Medical Ultrasound Society (2022) Preceptorship and capability development framework for sonographers.
Health Education England (2023) Sonographer career and progression framework. In: Appendix A. Preceptorship and capability development framework for sonographers.
IATE (2021) Sonographer (Integrated degree). Institute for Apprenticeship and Technical Education.
Skills for Health (2019) Occupational standards ultrasound: CI.C.2019 Perform, interpret and report on ultrasound examinations.
(Image: Photo by SolStock via GettyImages)