The National Breast Imaging Academy (NBIA) is delighted to celebrate reaching a significant milestone in the development of the breast imaging workforce with 200 Mammography Associate apprentices now trained through the Level 4 apprenticeship programme, via the three Mammography Associate training sites. This achievement represents a crucial step in improving access to the national breast screening services and symptomatic services across the country.
Since its development in 2019, the Mammography Associate apprenticeship has played a crucial role in addressing the demand for mammographers. Developed by the Mammography Associate Trailblazer Group, which included NHS and academic experts, the Society and College of Radiographers, and Public Health England, the programme provides standardised training and assessment. The Level 4 apprenticeship is funded by the Apprenticeship Levy, making it a cost-effective way to train staff who are immediately ‘job ready’ to support the running of an efficient breast imaging service.
The apprenticeship is currently delivered by three training sites across England: Jarvis National Breast Education and Training Centre (with The Royal Free NHS Foundation Trust); National Breast Imaging Academy (with Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust); and St George’s National Breast Education Centre (with South Thames College). Supported by mentors and using NBIA’s online resources, apprentices undertake both academic study and on-the-job training in their host NHS Trusts.
Commenting on the achievement, Lyndsay Kinnear, NBIA Radiographic Lead and Chair of the Mammography Associate Trailblazer Group said:
“Reaching this milestone of 200 Mammography Associate apprentices is a testament to the dedication of our apprentices and the collaborative effort of the learning providers. Together, we are addressing critical mammography workforce shortages to improve access to breast cancer screening and diagnostic services across England.”
Commenting on the value of the apprenticeship, Claire Borrelli, Education Manager from St. George’s Hospital and Radiographic Advisor to the NHSBSP/NHSE said:
“All three National Training Centres bring extensive experience and expertise to learners to develop their underpinning knowledge and clinical skills in mammography to reach and maintain competency with hands on experience in the workplace. The unique design and provision of high-quality training routes is an essential requirement to support Trusts provide safe, productive and effective care as all apprenticeships are employer led.
Virinia Oosthuizen, Education Manager from the Jarvis Training Centre added: “Mammography Associates are a crucial part of our four-tier workforce structure. Offering an apprenticeship as an entry route adds great value and diversity to the profession by encouraging candidates with a range of background experiences to work in mammography. This supports us to meet the ever-increasing demand for breast cancer services and provide high quality care to patients in a timely manner.”
Reflecting on progress being made to tackle national breast imaging workforce shortages, Dr Mary Wilson, Consultant Radiologist and Programme Lead for the NBIA said:
“It is fantastic to see the success of the Level 4 Mammography Associate apprenticeship and we are delighted that, with the recent launch of the Level 5 foundation degree level apprenticeship, we are now able to provide a career pathway for those wishing to advance their expertise and take on a wide scope of practice. Thank you to everyone involved in making this possible.”
For more information about our apprenticeship programmes, visit NBIA Apprenticeships.