Podiatry Apprentice

Job overview

This is an exciting opportunity to join Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust as a Podiatry Degree Apprentice, undertaking a three-year programme that combines work-based learning with academic study to become a registered Podiatrist.

Working within our supportive multidisciplinary Podiatry team, you will gain hands-on experience across community and acute settings whilst studying towards a BSc (Hons) in Podiatry through our partnership with the University of East London.

This role is ideal for a motivated individual with a passion for healthcare and patient-centred care who wishes to develop clinical skills and build a rewarding long-term career. You will support the assessment, treatment and management of patients with a wide range of foot health conditions, helping to improve mobility, independence and quality of life.

This is a unique opportunity to earn while you learn, develop professionally and become part of the future podiatry workforce within a progressive NHS organisation.

Applicants must be aged 18 or over at the start of the apprenticeship, be eligible to work and study in England for the full duration of the programme, and have ordinarily resided in the UK for at least three years prior to the programme start date.

Applicants must also meet apprenticeship funding and University entry requirements, including GCSE English and Maths (Grade 4/C or above or equivalent), a relevant Level 3 qualification and the ability to study at degree level.

Main duties of the job

Main Duties of the Job

Undertake a structured Podiatry Degree Apprenticeship programme, combining academic study with supervised clinical practice over three years.

Deliver safe, effective podiatry care to patients under supervision, developing clinical skills across a range of community and acute settings Participate in rotational placements, including opportunities with partner organisations, to gain a breadth of experience.

Work as part of a multidisciplinary team, supporting assessment, treatment, and ongoing management of patients.

Maintain accurate clinical records and contribute to service delivery in line with Trust policies and professional standards.

Engage in protected learning time, including attendance at university (typically one day per week during term time) and completion of all academic requirements.

Develop knowledge, skills, and professional behaviours required for HCPC registration as a podiatrist.

Undertake delegated non-clinical and administrative duties to support efficient service delivery.

Actively participate in supervision, appraisal, and continuous professional development.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

This is a developmental apprenticeship role combining academic study with supervised clinical practice across Lewisham and Greenwich NHS Trust and partner organisations. The post holder will contribute to delivery of podiatry services while progressively developing the knowledge, skills, and behaviours required for HCPC registration.

The role supports the four pillars of practice: clinical care, education, leadership, and service development, under appropriate supervision.

Clinical Responsibilities

• Deliver podiatry care within defined competencies under the supervision of a registered podiatrist
• Undertake patient assessment, treatment, and management planning appropriate to level of training
• Gain experience managing a wide range of conditions including high-risk foot (including diabetes), vascular, musculoskeletal, wound care, and nail/skin pathologies
• Support delivery of care across community, outpatient, domiciliary, and acute settings
• Promote patient self-management and provide health education to patients, carers, and families
• Recognise changes in patient condition and escalate appropriately

Education and Training

• Successfully complete the BSc (Hons) Podiatry Degree Apprenticeship, including all academic modules and clinical placements
• Attend university (typically one day per week during term time) and participate fully in off-the-job learning
• Maintain a portfolio of learning and demonstrate progression through defined competencies
• Engage in regular supervision, appraisal, and reflective practice

Service Delivery and Team Working

• Work as part of a multidisciplinary team to support coordinated patient care
• Contribute to service delivery through delegated clinical and non-clinical duties
• Maintain accurate, contemporaneous clinical records in line with Trust and professional standards
• Participate in rota systems, including cross-site and community working where required

Quality, Governance and Service Improvement

• Adhere to Trust policies, clinical guidelines, and professional standards (HCPC/RCOP)
• Participate in audit, service evaluation, and quality improvement initiatives
• Maintain awareness of clinical governance, risk, and infection control responsibilities

General Responsibilities

• Manage workload appropriately with supervision, demonstrating developing prioritisation skills
• Use resources efficiently and contribute to value for money in service delivery
• Maintain professional behaviour in line with NHS values and Trust expectations
• Be flexible to work across sites and service areas in line with service need