A new partnership between Solihull College & University Centre and Birmingham and Solihull Training Hub is helping to develop the next generation of healthcare professionals through the launch of a dedicated Healthcare Support Worker apprenticeship.
The programme brings together apprentices from GP practices across Birmingham and Solihull, creating opportunities for learners to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to develop rewarding careers in primary care.
The initiative reflects a shared commitment to tackling workforce challenges by investing in local talent and creating clear pathways into healthcare careers.
Speaking about the partnership, Senior Operational Officer, Molly Childs highlighted the importance of developing talent from within the sector. She comments: “We’re passionate about creating opportunities for people to build and develop their careers within Primary Care. We strongly believe in a ‘grow your own’ approach to workforce development, and the Healthcare Support Worker apprenticeship provides a fantastic entry point.”
The first cohort will benefit from learning alongside peers from practices across the region, helping them build professional networks and share experiences throughout their apprenticeship journey.
As part of the programme, apprentices will train in the College’s specialist healthcare facilities, including clinical skills environments designed to help learners develop practical skills in a safe and supportive setting.
Following a recent visit to the campus, Operational Officer, Sally Staff praised the facilities available to apprentices and the collaborative approach taken by the College. She commented: “We were particularly impressed by the clinical skills facilities, where learners will have plenty of opportunity to develop their practical skills safely and with support.”
The Training Hub also emphasised the value of working closely with the College to ensure the apprenticeship meets the needs of both learners and employers.
Molly further commented: “We’ve worked closely with the College from the outset to consider the challenges that practices and learners may face and how we can overcome them.”
Alongside industry-standard training facilities, apprentices will have access to the College’s wider campus resources, including study spaces, library, catering facilities including Costa Coffee and student fitness facilities, supporting their wellbeing throughout their studies.
The partnership marks an important step in strengthening the healthcare workforce across Birmingham and Solihull, with both organisations committed to creating more opportunities for local people to start and progress careers within primary care.
The College’s Senior Partnerships Consultant, Scott Dalziel, commented: “This has been a fantastic example of partnership working, with early feedback showing that employers feel confident, supported, and excited to begin the HCSW Apprenticeship programme. I very much look forward to continuing to work closely with Molly and Sally, supporting local employers to make the most of the wide range of training and development opportunities we offer.”
As the first cohort prepares to begin its apprenticeship journey, the collaboration aims to lay the foundations for a sustainable pipeline of skilled healthcare professionals serving communities across the region.
