The National Breast Imaging Academy (NBIA) is proud to welcome six new Mammography Associate (MA) apprentices who began their Level 4 apprenticeship programme in September. The MA programme is delivered through a partnership between Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust and the NBIA.
The apprentices are based in a range of NHS Trusts nationwide, including Harrogate, Sheffield, North Tees and Hartlepool, the Midlands, and Surrey. Throughout their training, apprentices will benefit from a blended learning approach offered by the NBIA, which includes both academic tuition and practical, on-the-job experience within their respective NHS Trusts.
Lyndsay Kinnear, NBIA Radiographic Lead and Chair of the NBIA Radiography Working Group, shared her enthusiasm for the new cohort:
“We’re thrilled to welcome new apprentices to the programme and we look forward to supporting them in developing the confidence, expertise and skills they need to succeed as Mammography Associates. Their work will make a significant contribution to improving access to breast cancer detection, diagnosis, and treatment within the NHS.”
Lyndsay added, “To date, the NBIA has successfully guided over 85 apprentices through their MA programme, with 35 more currently progressing. We are committed to growing this vital workforce.”
Mammography Associates hold an important role within both the NHS Breast Screening Programme (NHSBSP) and symptomatic services, delivering high-quality, routine two-view mammography that meets the stringent requirements of the NHSBSP.
The MA apprenticeship, delivered by Manchester University Hospital NHS Trust in collaboration with the NBIA, provides apprentices with a range of learning opportunities, including:
- Expert-led training: Apprentices receive instruction from experienced tutors at the Nightingale Centre in Manchester, one of the leading breast imaging units in England.
- Blended learning model: The programme combines online, tutor-led learning with three days of in-person classroom teaching and two clinical placements at the Nightingale Centre, ensuring a well-rounded, hands-on educational experience.
- Access to the NBIA Academy Online Learning Hub: Apprentices are provided with a wealth of digital resources and support to enhance their learning.
Learn more about the Mammography Associate level 4 apprenticeship programme.