As the National Breast Imaging Academy (NBIA) continues to expand and strengthen the breast imaging workforce, the importance of high-quality mentorship has never been greater. Many of the new and emerging apprenticeship routes in breast imaging, namely the Level 4 Mammography Associate and the Level 5 Assistant Practitioner (health) – Specialising in Mammography, rely heavily on skilled, confident mentors to support learners in practice.
To help meet this need, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust (MFT) is launching a Level 4 Learning and Skills Mentor Apprenticeship, a programme that will be highly relevant to those currently mentoring, or planning to mentor staff – whether that be within breast imaging services or any other specialty.
While this apprenticeship is not delivered by the NBIA, it aligns closely with our shared aim of improving the quality, consistency and sustainability of training across the sector.
The programme is open to both MFT staff and external applicants, making it accessible to mentors working across the NHS and independent providers. It offers a structured way to develop mentoring skills, deepen understanding of teaching and learning in the workplace, and gain a nationally recognised qualification.
Delivered by MFT’s experienced apprenticeship team, the course supports mentors to build confidence in areas such as learner support, assessment, feedback and professional development – all of which are critical to high-quality apprenticeship delivery.
Key benefits include:
- A nationally recognised Level 4 qualification
- Support for continuing professional development (CPD)
- Access to expert trainers and tailored learning resources
- Open to applicants outside MFT
- Fully funded through the apprenticeship levy, at no cost to departmental budgets
The first cohort is scheduled to begin in February 2026.
Effective mentorship is a cornerstone of safe, high-quality breast imaging services. As new roles and training routes develop, investment in mentors is essential to ensure apprentices are well supported and services remain resilient.
Lyndsay Kinnear, Lead Radiographer for the NBIA, commented:
“As the NBIA works to grow the breast imaging workforce, we are seeing a greater need for mentors who feel confident, supported and properly prepared for the role. Opportunities like this apprenticeship help strengthen the foundations of training and ultimately benefit both learners and patients.”
The NBIA encourages organisations and individuals involved in apprenticeship delivery to consider how programmes such as this can support mentors and enhance the overall quality of workplace learning.
For further details, including eligibility and application information, please contact [email protected]