The National Breast Imaging Academy (NBIA) has welcomed 18 new Mammography Associate (MA) apprentices as they start their level 4 apprenticeship programme. The programme is delivered by NHS England North East and Yorkshire, in partnership with Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust.
The popularity of the NBIA course has attracted apprentice MAs from as far afield as Plymouth, North Tees, Hartlepool, Nottingham and Chesterfield, along with those closer to home in Greater Manchester. Apprentices will benefit from the NBIA’s blended MA teaching programme, complemented by on-the-job training within their host Trust.
Commenting on the new intake, Lyndsay Kinnear, NBIA Radiographic Lead and Chair of the NBIA Radiography Working Group said:
“We are delighted to have attracted so many apprentices and look forward to supporting them to become confident, knowledgeable and competent Mammography Associates, helping their breast units improve access to breast cancer detection, diagnosis and treatment.”
Lyndsay added, “The NBIA has now supported over 60 MAs to complete their apprenticeship and we have another 47 in progress. Within this new cohort, we welcome our 100th apprentice – a milestone to celebrate in our mission to increase the breast imaging workforce across England.”
Mammography Associates play a crucial role within the NHS Breast Screening Programme (NHSBSP) and symptomatic services. They perform routine two-view mammography, producing consistently high-quality images that meet the rigorous standards set by the NHSBSP.
MA apprenticeship training provided by NHS England North East and Yorkshire, in partnership with Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, offers apprentices:
- Training by expert tutors: expert guidance at the Nightingale Centre in Manchester, one of England’s leading breast units, within one of the largest NHS Trusts in the UK.
- A blended teaching programme: online tutor-led learning, three days of classroom-based instruction, and two clinical placements at the Nightingale Centre, offering a comprehensive and hands-on educational experience.
- Access to NBIA Academy Online Learning Hub: Apprentices gain access to a wealth of online resources and support to enhance their learning.
Find out more about the MA apprenticeship here.