The first Level 4 Mammography Associate apprentices trained by the National Breast Imaging Academy (NBIA) in partnership with Health Education England have graduated with flying colours.
The eight mammography associates, who began training in 2019, have now joined the NHS workforce in the North of England to help provide much-needed breast imaging services.
Two of the apprentices are based at Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, while the remaining six come from NHS Trusts in Blackpool, Bolton, East Lancashire, North Tees and Hartlepool, Sheffield and Morecambe Bay.
The one-year Level 4 Mammography Associate apprenticeship programme is offered at training sites in Guildford, London and Nottingham as well as Manchester, where the NBIA is based. It is part of a comprehensive programme of training, recruitment and career development which aims to boost the NHS breast imaging workforce.
Helen Suddes, Apprenticeship Lead at HEE North East & Yorkshire, said:
“The development of the Mammography Associate Apprenticeship is so important for breast screening services. Being able to deliver such a high-quality programme within the north of England has such positive benefits for our patients and all the organisations that we work with.”
“It is such a reward to know our first cohort of mammography associates are now qualified and valued. They are fulfilling a crucial role within this service, and at a time when they are needed the most.”