What is the training academy?

Becoming a healthcare support worker is not something that can be learned overnight – real- life experience and training is needed if you are to succeed in the role. That’s why we brought in a special ‘academy’ programme for our new starters. Our Social and Health Care Partnership Training Academy offers newly appointed HCSWs the opportunity to train in an industry-standard, immersive suite, which includes a replica hospital ward, as well as a home setting to mirror social care situations. The academy, which is hosted at Telford College, takes place at the beginning of new HCSWs’ employment, equipping them with a solid foundation to support the delivery of fundamental care, enabling them to complete their mandatory training both face-to-face and through e-learning. At the end of the two-week programme, HCSWs are awarded their Care Certificate before going in to their role within one of the local NHS or social care employers.

What type of training will I be given?

The academy programme entails a mixture of in-person and online learning, combining practical skills with basic medical knowledge to ensure patients are offered the highest quality experience. The programme is led by a team of tutors who have extensive experience in the field and can provide not only their expertise, but also share their first-hand experiences throughout their careers. During the course of the two-week training, HCSWs will take part in modules, including:

• Infection prevention and control theory

• Communication and patient experience workshops

• Moving and handling

• Nutrition and hydration

• Falls

• Diabetes

• End of life care

• Mental health

What happens after the academy finishes?

Upon completion of your training programme, you will be able to transfer your skills into a number of healthcare roles across the system, including the community and hospital settings, depending on the role you’ve secured. At present, healthcare support workers are placed across Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust (SaTH), The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH) and Shropshire Community Health NHS Trust (SCHT). You will discuss your placement during your interview and will be allocated a role based on the number of vacancies available, as well as your individual circumstances such as where you live and whether or not you drive.

FAQs

Is there an age limit to be a healthcare support worker?

No – roles are open to anyone aged over the age of 18. Our teams are made up of young people at the start of their career, as well as those who wanted a change in direction later in life.

What qualifications do I need?

There are no specific qualifications or experience needed, but we do ask for a good level of literacy and numeracy. We are looking for compassionate, dedicated individuals who are not afraid of a challenge and are in search of a truly rewarding role.

How often does the academy run?

We are continually recruiting new HCSWs and are holding academy programmes every month.

Do I have to pay for my training?

No – the Social and Health Care Partnership Training Academy is fully funded so you do not need to pay a fee for your training, plus you will receive your normal rate of pay for the hours spent in the academy.

Is the academy full-time?

Yes – Monday to Friday from 9am until 5pm.

How are jobs allocated?

Available roles will be discussed with you at interview and allocated dependent upon where there are vacancies and your individual circumstances.

What types of shifts are available?

We have a range of work patterns available to suit a variety of preferences and lifestyles. These include permanent roles that will include a mixture of day and night shifts on a rota basis, and ‘bank work’ for those who want something more flexible.

Will I have the opportunity to move between sites once I am qualified?

Working as a healthcare support worker is diverse with lots of roles available and opportunities to progress within your organisation and more widely across other health and care partners within Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin.