Our second cohort of trainee Assistant Practitioners (tAPs) have graduated after a a joint celebration at New College Lanarkshire and South Lanarkshire College recognising their hard work, dedication, and commitment to enhancing patient care.
The group has successfully graduated following the completion of the Trainee Assistant Practitioner Programme – an initiative delivered in partnership between us, New College Lanarkshire and South Lanarkshire College.
Launched in January 2024, the tAP programme was developed to address rising demands in health and social care. The graduation of this latest cohort means we’ve now seen 50 staff complete the SCQF Level 8 PDA in Acute and Community Care while also achieving core competencies, including service improvement and clinical practice, aligned to the four pillars of practice.
This structured approach builds on existing professional capability and offers potential career progression for Healthcare support workers. Those on the course blend academic study with hands-on clinical experience to gain the practical skills and professional judgement required for modern healthcare roles.
Julie McMillan, tAP Workstream Lead, said: “Congratulations to our newest cohort of Band 4 assistant practitioners. Their dedication and achievements are a testament to the bright future of healthcare across Lanarkshire.
“The graduation ceremonies were truly memorable. Both colleges created a celebratory atmosphere as graduates received their certificates in front of proud families, friends, and colleagues.
“Their achievement marks an important milestone both in their professional development and in strengthening the quality of care within our services.
“All of our assistant practitioners have made a positive impact across our services. Their enhanced skills; from wound management and nutritional assessments to service improvement and other delegated procedures; are strengthening the quality and efficiency of patient care.
“Their skills and experience allow registered healthcare practitioners to focus on more complex needs, ensuring safe and effective care delivery.
“The introduction of Assistant Practitioners has had a significant impact on improving patient care across Lanarkshire. Through this structured training programme, NHS Lanarkshire is laying the foundation for a more flexible and skilled workforce that aligns with its vision for sustainable healthcare delivery.”
One of the graduates commented: “I have truly enjoyed completing the course. It has been a great experience meeting so many amazing people and developing my practical skills and knowledge, which has given me the confidence to carry out my role effectively.
“I would encourage any home care support worker who is considering progressing their career to seriously think about this opportunity. I’m very proud of the personal and professional growth I have achieved over the past few years, and I am excited to continue my career with NHS Lanarkshire.”
The tAP programme provides a pathway for career development in NHS Lanarkshire as well as opening opportunities for further advancement. We’re actively exploring options for articulation into pre-registration nursing degree programmes for those who wish to pursue nurse training.
