Posted: 4 August 2025
DN Colleges Group (DNCG) higher education partners University Campus North Lincolnshire (UCNL) and University Campus Doncaster (UCDon) are celebrating a remarkable 96% pass rate on their pioneering Level 5 Healthcare Assistant Practitioner Apprenticeship, a programme that is driving real transformation across the NHS workforce in the region.
With over 100 higher apprentices having successfully completed the rigorous 24-month programme at DNCG, developed in partnership with Sheffield Hallam University, this initiative is playing a vital role in addressing long-standing staff shortages within the health and social care sector.
“Consistently achieving a 96% pass rate, many with merits and distinctions, is a phenomenal testament to the resilience and dedication of our learners, and to the outstanding academic and pastoral support provided by our team” said Paul Stapleton, DNCG Interim Curriculum Leader for Construction and Apprenticeships. “We’re proud to say that this programme is changing lives and helping to stabilise the healthcare workforce at a critical time.”
Rapid progress, stronger cohesion
With a flexible, online-first approach that lets students learn without stepping away from their role, programme tutors have observed how quickly learners bonded as a cohort, fostering peer support networks that exceed those seen in traditional online and full-time academic settings. This strong collaborative environment, paired with expert teaching and mentorship, has contributed to consistently high performance and exceptional academic results across every intake.
Balancing full-time clinical roles with academic study is no small feat, especially for learners returning to education after a break. Many reported developing new coping strategies and time management skills, supported closely by their tutors and academic advisors.
“The dedication of our students is inspiring. To maintain such high standards while working in demanding healthcare settings speaks volumes about their commitment to their patients, employer and to an exciting future career in the sector.” said Harry Marks, Programme Lead, Level 4 & 5 Health and Social Care at UCNL.
Transformative real-world learning
One of the programme’s greatest strengths is its deep connection to real-world clinical practice. Designed in collaboration with healthcare professionals, the course structure, content, and delivery mirror the demands of modern NHS settings, ensuring that learners gain practical, immediately applicable skills alongside their academic development.
Apprentices are immersed in scenarios that prioritise patient safety, uphold professional standards, and promote reflective, evidence-based practice. This approach not only equips them to perform their duties effectively but also empowers them to lead, advocate for quality care, and drive improvements within their teams.
“The course content felt incredibly relevant to my day-to-day work,” said one student. “We didn’t just study theory, we learn how to apply it in real patient care.”
Crucially, the programme brings together a diverse group of professionals from across South Yorkshire, Humberside, and Greater Lincolnshire, including those with experience in physiotherapy, occupational health, care assistance, and more. This variety of perspectives has enriched peer learning, helping apprentices develop a broader understanding of multidisciplinary care and team dynamics.
As a result, many have reported increased self-awareness, improved communication, and a greater appreciation for the value of collaboration, all key qualities that enhance both patient outcomes and workplace wellbeing.
“The apprenticeship’s broader perspective has been essential in helping me truly grasp the bigger picture of what happens on a ward,” said another final-year student. “I’ve developed a deeper understanding of the roles of other team members that I interact with daily, along with stronger verbal and written communication skills that support effective collaboration.”
Positive outcomes for employers
Employers who supported the pilot programme have reported noticeable improvements in service delivery, staff confidence, and retention rates. Apprentices are stepping into greater responsibility, contributing more effectively to patient care and helping to fill crucial gaps across clinical services.
“DNCG deliver several apprenticeships for Rotherham Doncaster and South Humber NHS Trust (RDaSH), including the Level 5 Assistant Practitioner, and their professionalism and support have been outstanding,” said Jade Pullen, Apprenticeship Lead at RDaSH.
“Their dedication and strong communication have made the apprentices feel supported. With their trainers always willing to help, the in-person teaching and tutor 1-2-1 sessions have made a real difference to our colleagues. We look forward to continuing our partnership to support many more colleagues and people within our communities.”
Looking ahead
As the latest cohort prepares for final assessments, with many already pursuing internal career progression, the programme is clearly helping to build a more resilient, skilled, and compassionate healthcare workforce.
Plans are now underway to expand and tailor the programme within its existing framework for new groups of learners across a broader range of health and social care settings, further strengthening both regional and national talent pipelines.
Interested in joining the next cohort?
For more information about upskilling your staff or to register your interest in the Level 5 Healthcare Assistant Practitioner Apprenticeship, click here.