The National Breast Imaging Academy (NBIA) is delighted to hear the news that NHS England, North East and Yorkshire, has achieved an ‘Outstanding’ rating in their recent Ofsted inspection. This recognition highlights the exceptional quality of the apprenticeship programmes they provide , including the Mammography Associate apprenticeship delivered in collaboration with the NBIA, which plays a key role in addressing the national shortage of breast imaging specialists.
Since 2017, NHS England North East and Yorkshire has been the main provider of niche apprenticeship programmes in collaboration with NHS Trusts. The recent Ofsted inspection, conducted in July 2024, acknowledged the team’s dedication and excellence in delivering these specialised training programmes.
Not only was the top Ofsted grade achieved, but the success rate of apprentices on programme reached 90%, which represents a huge achievement for all the staff involved.
Commenting on the achievement, Dr Mary Wilson, Consultant Breast Radiologist and Lead of the National Breast Imaging Academy, said:
“Receiving an ‘Outstanding’ rating from Ofsted is a significant accomplishment and reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the apprenticeship programmes. The NBIA Mammography Associate apprenticeship is crucial for the future of breast imaging in the UK, and we are proud of the impact it has had on the NHS workforce.”
Despite this exceptional Ofsted performance, NHS England North East and Yorkshire has made the strategic decision to cease its role as a main provider of apprenticeships. Going forward for new apprentices, the new main provider of the NBIA Mammography Associates apprenticeship training will be Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust. The current apprentices (in Cohorts 7, 8, 9, and 10) will continue to receive full support from NHS England North East and Yorkshire so this change will have no impact on their training.”
Dr Wilson commented on this transition:
“We are pleased to welcome our host Trust, Manchester University Hospital NHS Trust as the new main provider. Our new apprentices will continue to benefit from the superb training that we provide and the apprentices currently enrolled in the Mammography Associate apprenticeship will continue to receive the outstanding training and support from the current provider ensuring a smooth transition.”
The Mammography Associate apprenticeship has been instrumental in providing a structured pathway for individuals to enter the field of breast imaging, offering a blend of practical experience and academic learning that equips apprentices with the expertise needed to excel in their roles within the NHS Breast Screening Programme (NHSBSP) and symptomatic breast care services.