Why choose a career in the NHS in Wales?
As the largest employer in Wales the health service can offer over 200 career opportunities. Everything from pharmacists to paramedics, gynaecologists to clinical engineers, radiographers to midwives. Or perhaps you would be more interested in one of the vital support services such as administrative and clerical, estates, general/financial management, catering, domestics or health promotion. Whatever skills, experience and qualifications you have, this webpage will show what job opportunities the health service can offer, and list the necessary qualifications and training required.
Addresses are provided so that you can write or email for further information and for details on how
to apply.
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Administrative and Clerical Staff
Career description
Can include working in patient areas and offices, performing reception duties, keeping patient records, working in support of senior managers and clinicians. See also Finance and Management.
Educational requirements
Education will vary depending on type of job.
Ambulance Team
Career description
As well as the emergency services delivered by paramedics, the ambulance service provides nonemergency care and transport for patients; delivers mail, equipment, samples and x-rays; dispatches ambulance crews, transport and provides telephone healthcare advice.
Educational requirements
Education will vary depending on type of job
In-service training provided. The NHS has a good record for developing staff.
For more information Anatomical Pathology Technicians
Career description
Anatomical Pathology Technicians assist pathologists in post-mortem rooms, take tissue samples, maintain equipment and keep legally required mortuary records.
Educationl requirements
No specific requirements, though evidence of aptitude in science is helpful.
Training and qualifications
In-service training leading to certificate in Anatomical Pathology Technology and further qualifications.
For more information
Royal Institute of Public Health
28 Portland Place
London W1B 1DE
Tel: 020 7850 2731
Web: www.rsph.org.ukm
Animal Technician
Career description
Responsible for the care and welfare of animals being bred for, and used in, research.
Educational requirements
Will vary with employing organisation. Most prefer 5 GCSEs, or equivalent including maths, english language and a science.
Training and qualifications
There is a structured career path, enabling technicians to become qualified experts through in-service instruction and part-time education.
For more information
Institute of Animal Technology (IAT)
5 South Parade, Summerton Oxford OX2 7JL
Email:careers@iat.org.uk Web: www.iat.org.uk
Arts Therapist
Career description
Art, drama or music graduates or similar who use their chosen art form as a therapeutic intervention to help people with physical, mental, social and emotional difficulties.
Educational requirements
Degree or similar in art, drama or music.
Training and qualifications
Post Graduate Diploma or Masters Degree in Arts Therapy.
For more information
Audiologists
Career description
Identify and measure hearing loss, detect balance problems (inner ear) and neurological diseases. Prescribe rehabilitation and aids.
Eduational requirements
Varies.
A levels or equivalent for degree.
Training and qualifications
NHS sponsored degrees now available.
For more information
Audiological Scientists Clinical Scientists
Career description
Develop and apply techniques and equipment to detect and compensate hearing loss.
Educational requirements
Appropriate science degree, preferably with some knowledge of physics or behavioural science.
Training and qualifications
Continuing study at Masters and PhD level supported by NHS.
For more information
Audio Visual Technician
Career description
Provide educational support materials in various teaching areas of the health service.
Educational requirements
City & Guilds Audio‑Visual Techniques Certification No.7340 or alternative acceptable qualification.
Training and qualifications
In service training.
For more information
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk.
Biomedical Scientists (Medical Laboratory Scientific Officers)
Career description
A wide variety of scientists carry out investigative and diagnostic work to assist the health care team in the diagnosis and treatment of disease.
Educational requirements
Appropriate science degree.
Training and qualifications
Continuing study at Masters and PhD level supported by NHS.
For more information
Top of page
Cardiographer
Career description
Undertake image analysis of the heart. Works as part of a team with Cardiac Physiologist.
Educational requirements
No formal entry requirements but encouraged to become member of the Society for Cardiological Science and Technology and undertake the certificate in Electrocardiography examination.
Training and qualifications
In-service training provided (eg. Leading to NVQ at Level 2).
For more information
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Cardiac Physiologist
Career description
Works with patients with known or suspected cardiovascular conditions. Records and analyses ECG data. Monitors patients during surgery, intensive care and tests.
Educational requirements
A levels or equivalent for degree.
Training and qualifications
NHS sponsored degrees now available.
For more in formation
Catering Services
Career description
Catering staff are responsible for providing nutritious food required by patients to aid recovery. Provision for staff is also made.
Educational requirements
Managers: Degree, HND/BTEC or equivalent HCIMA qualification or practical experience of catering services. Work is available at all levels and differing levels of experience are welcomed.
Training and qualifications
Managers: Hotel Services Development Programme.
Supervisors: City & Guilds 706/1 and 2 or Certificate of National Examinations Board for Supervisory studies or relevant supervisory experience. For other staff – training at work. The NHS has a good record for developing staff through access to college courses.
For more information
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Hotel and Catering International Management Association
Tel: 020 86614900
E-mail: recep@hcima
Web: www.hcima.org.uk
Cervical Cytology Screener
Career description
Screeners examine cervical smears under the microscope to screen women for early signs of cancer.
Educational requirements
Four GCSEs or equivalent or relevant experience. There are no additional formal requirements to join as a trainee cytology screener.
Training and qualifications
In-service training leading to Cervical Screening Programme Certificate.
For more information
Institute of Biomedical Science
12 Coldbath Square, London EC1R 5HL
Tel: 020 77130214
E-mail: mail@ibms.org
Web: www.ibms.org or
National Association of Cytologists
Web: www.nac.org.uk
Chiropodist/Podiatristis
Career description
Specialty concerned with the diagnosis and/or medical, surgical, mechanical physical or other treatment of the diseases, injuries and defects of the human foot.
Educational requirements
A levels or similar.
Training and qualifications
Degree sponsored by NHS.
For more information
Clinical Biochemists
Career description
Develop and manage hospital and community methods of analysis and data interpretation and advise on diagnosis and treatment of diseases.
Educational requirements
Degree in biochemistry or chemistry.
Training and qualifications
Continuing study at Masters and PhD level supported by NHS.
For more information
NLIAH, Innovation House, Bridgend Road
Llanharan CF72 9RP
Tel: 01443 233472
E-mail: nhswalescareers@nliah.wales.nhs.uk
Web: www.nhswalescareers.com
For more information
Clinical Cytogeneticists
Career description
Studies chromosomes from patients’ blood, tissue or bodily fluid to diagnose genetic diseases and defects.
Educational requirements
Degree in genetics or relevant life science with a genetics component.
Training and qualifications
Continuing study at Masters and PhD level supported by NHS.
For more information
Clinical Embryologist
Career description
Works within assisted reproduction centres treating infertile couples. They handle human eggs, sperm and embryos.
Educational requirements
Degree in biological science or physics and engineering related to medicine.
Training and qualifications
Continuing study at Masters and PhD level supported by NHS.
For more information
Clinical Engineer
Career description
Applies the principles of engineering to patient diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation. Main aspects involve the design of specialised equipment and the investigation of human mechanical and electrical function.
Educational requirements
Degree.
Training an d qualifications
Continuing study at Masters and PhD level supported
by NHS.
Clinical Scientist in Histocompatibility & Immunogenetics
Career description
Specialists in “tissue typing” for organ and marrow transplants.
Educational requirements
Degree in relevant biological science with experience of immunology.
Training and qualifications
Continuing study at Masters and PhD level supported by NHS.
For more information
Clinical Immunologist
Career description
Works with clinicians to develop new tests and treatments involving the manipulation of the immune system.
Educational requirements
Degree in relevant biological science: immunology, biochemistry or microbiology.
Training and qualifications
Continuing study at Masters and PhD level supported by NHS.
For more information
Clinical Microbiologist
Career description
Plays an important role in diagnosis, prevention and control of infections, and developing diagnostic tests.
Educational requirements
Degree in microbiology or similar.
Training and qualifications
Continuing study at Masters and PhD level supported by NHS.
For more information
Clinical Neurophysiologists
Career description
Assess the functions of the nervous system in the clinical setting for diagnosis, intensive care and before and during and after surgery.
Educational requirements
Varies.
A Levels or equivalent for degree.
Training and qualifications
NHS sponsored degree now available.
For more information
Clinical Physiologist Respiratory
Career description
Measures the functioning of patients’ lungs and breathing systems when active, at rest and asleep.
Educational requirements
Varies.
A Levels or equivalent for degree.
Training and qualifications
NHS sponsored degree now available.
For more information
Clinical Scientist in Haematology
Career description
Analyses cells in bone marrow, blood and other fluids to assist in diagnosing, monitoring and treating diseases.
Educational requirements
Degree in biological science or physics and engineering related to medicine.
Training and qualifications
Continuing study at Masters and PhD level supported by NHS.
For more information
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Dark Room Technician
Career description
Assists in developing films and X-ray plates for diagnostic and record purposes.
Educational requirements
No qualifications specified, although a good general education will be beneficial.
Training and qualifications
In-service training provided.
For more information
See NHS Jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Dentist
Career description
Health care professionals specialising in the diagnosis and treatment of a range of problems affecting the mouth and teeth. Diagnostic, clinical and social skills are required.
Educational requirements
High academic standards. Wide range of GCSEs plus 3 A levels or equivalent which should be in chemistry, and two from maths, physics, biology or zoology, plus the UK Clinical Aptitude Test. Limited opportunities for applicants with arts A levels, where dental schools offer a ‘pre‑dental’ year, to compensate for lack of science subjects.
Training and qualifications
Five year course in a university dental school followed by vocational training in an approved training dental practice.
For more information
School of Dentistry
Cardiff University
Heath Park, Cardiff CF14 4XY
Web: www.cardiff.ac.uk
British Dental Association website:
www.bda-dentistry.org.uk
For course information: www.ucas.com
Dental Hygienist
Career description
Carries out oral hygiene work. Includes cleaning patients’ mouths plus an educational role in prevention of tooth decay/gum disease.
Educational requirements
2 A levels plus 5 CGSEs grade A‑C (including English and 1 science) or equivalent, or a recognised dental nursing qualification.
Training and qualifications
Full‑time course of two years leading to Diploma in Dental Hygiene. Course covers a wide range of subjects including anatomy, immunology, periodontal disease, practical skills and teaching theory.
For more information
Information Officer
The British Dental Hygienists Association
10 Vermuyden Way, Fen Drayton
Cambridge, Cambs CB4 5TA
Tel/Fax: 01954 231599
E-mail: enquiries@bdha.org.uk
Web: www.bdha.org.uk
Working in Dentistry: www.bda.org/dcps/
Dental Nurses
Career description
Prepare the surgery, getting the appropriate instruments ready, mix materials, maintain records, and ensure patient is comfortable.
Educational requirements
No minimum qualifications although at least 2 GCSEs at grades A–C are usually required to undertake the certficate.
Training and qualifications
Through practical employment and part‑time study, or full-time course of one or two years leading to a National Certificate.
For more information
Dental Nursing at Cardiff: www.cardiff.ac.uk/pgmde/careersandrecruitment/index
For apprenticeships see: www.skillsforhealth.org.uk/workforce-design-development/workforce-strategy/developing-your-workforce-for-the-future/Apprenticeships/Apprenticeships.aspx
Working in Dentistry: www.bda.org/dcps/
Dental Technician
Career description
Involved in all aspects of dental technology; making a wide range of dental appliances including dentures, crown and bridge work.
Educational requirements
No minimum qualifications although at least 4 GCSEs (including 2 sciences) at grades A‑C are usually required to undertake the diploma. A levels or equivalent required for degree.
Training and qualifications
Two routes: work-based with NHS or commercial laboratory taking part-time course for 4-5 years or study-based, taking a 3 year full-time course leading to a BTEC/EDEXEL diploma or a degree.
For more information
Dental Technicians Association
PO Box 6520
Northampton NN3 9ZX
Tel: 0870 243 0753
Web: www.dta-uk.org
Working in Dentistry: www.bda.org/dcps/
Dental Therapist
Career description
Based mainly within the community and hospital services, providing dental care for children, patients with special needs and expectant mothers. Carries out some clinical work and teaches about dental hygiene.
Educational requirements
Five GCSE subjects (including one science) or equivalent, and either 2 A Levels or a nationally recognised dental nursing qualification.
Training and qualifications
Full-time course of approx. 2 years, leading to a Diploma in Dental Therapy, or 3 years for a degree.
For more information
British Association of Dental Therapists
92 Myfield Drive
Caversham
Reading RC4 5JT
Tel: 01189 482651
Web: www.badt.org.uk
Working in Dentistry: www.bda.org/dcps/
Dietician
Career description
Dietitians use their knowledge of nutritional, medical and social sciences to devise appropriate eating patterns for their patients.
Educational requirements
A levels or equivalent including specified sciences for degree.
Training and qualifications
NHS sponsored degree available.
For more information
Doctor
Career description
Provides primary and continuing medical care for patients. Considers physical, psychological and social factors when diagnosing illness, prescribing treatment, administering treatment and practising preventative medicine.
Educational requirements
High academic standards. Wide range of CGSEs plus 3 A levels or equivalent which should be in chemistry, plus two from maths, physics, biology or zoology. Limited opportunities for applicants with art A levels.
Training and qualifications
Entry via a degree course of 5 or 6 years in a university medical school. Shortened courses are available to graduates and appropriately qualified health professionals. Once registered additional training required to become a GP or specialist: 9-14 years in total from entry.
For more information
British Medical Association
Web: www.bma.org.uk/ap.nsf/content/
HubCareersandeducation
School of Medicine, Cardiff University
Web: www.cardiff.ac.uk
Tel: 029 2087 4000
General Medical Council
Web: www.gmc-uk.org
For course information: www.ucas.com
Postgraduate Medical and Dental Education in Wales
Web: www.cardiff.ac.uk/pgmde/careersandrecruitment/index
Estates Staff
Career description
Estates staff include: Architects, Engineers, Estates Managers and Planners, Gardeners, Operation and Maintenance Staff, Painters and Decorators, Project Managers, Skilled Tradesmen, Surveyors and Technicians. Responsibilities include strategic longer‑term planning; land and property matters; the planning, design and construction of buildings and the upgrading, operation and maintenance of the existing estate.
Educational requirements
Entry requirements vary. They range from those normally needed for craft apprenticeship, through various levels of achievement at GCSE, GNVQ, NVQ and City & Guilds, to technical and professional qualifications (eg degrees) for management posts. An Estate Trainee Grade is available for those who are eligible for entry to BTEC, City & Guilds or other formal technical courses and who have the potential for more senior posts.
Training and qualifications
Training requirements vary with the job but staff are individually counselled to ensure that training, the job and career are properly matched. Assistance in obtaining further technical qualifications for career development is normally available in appropriate cases. Experience gained in the Health Service can, together with the required academic achievement, lead to professional qualification.
For more information
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Finance Managers
Career description
Our finance professionals manage multi‑billion pound budgets to provide world-class healthcare to all in Wales. It’s an influential role, crucial to running a vast organisation innovatively and effectively.
Educational requirements
Direct entry: 2:2 degree or equivalent. Diversity in age, experience and background is welcome whether you’re a graduate, already working in the NHS or contemplating a career change. Seasoned finance professionals within health or any management function are welcomed.
Training and qualifications
Over the three year Management Training Programme, you will study for a professional CIPFA qualification to become a member of CIPFA. You will hone your leadership and technical accounting skills while gaining an in‑depth understanding of our financial operations and healthcare services.
For more information
NLIAH, Innovation House
Bridgend Road, Llanharan CF72 9RP
www.nliah.wales.nhs.uk
Management Training in NHS England
Tel: 0870 169 9731
Web: www.come2life.nhs.uk
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Finance Staff
Career description
Teams of accounts and wages staff analyse the allocation of resources; identify the real costs of services and contribute to planning the quality and quantity of future patient care.
Educational requirements
Candidates should have C grade GCSEs or equivalent including maths or finance qualifications or experience. Applicants from NHS staff are welcome.
Training and qualifications
There is training at work and the NHS has a good record for developing staff through access to college courses.
For more information
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Healthcare Support Workers
Career description
Employed to work within teams supervised by registered professionals in all clinical areas.
Educational requirements
Varies.
Training and qualifications
In‑service. There may be routes to allow progress to registered professional status on completion of part‑time or full time courses, depending upon local availability.
For more information
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
For more information
Health Education/Health Promotion Officer
Career description
Involved in planning and implementation of policies; education and training; publicity and information; research and evaluation; and developing initiatives to promote good health and prevent disease.
Educational requirements
Degree (in biological, social or behavioural sciences) and/or nurse, health visitor, teacher, social worker or similar. A postgraduate qualification is desirable.
Training and qualifications
Mainly in-service training, together with a part-time Diploma/Masters in Health Education.
For more information
Web: www.nhscareers.nhs.uk
See Careers A-Z, H for health education and promotion officer
Health Informatics Staff
Career description
This job family includes staff working in ICT, Libraries, Health Records, Clinical Audit, Clinical Coding, Data Quality, Information Analysis, Reception and Ward Clerks
Educational requirements
Education will vary depending on type of job
Training and qualifications
Opportunities to progress during employment
supported by the NHS.
For more information
Health Informatics: www.wales.nhs.uk/hi-profile
Also see - Health Informatics Framework
Health Visitor
Career description
Health visitors are key players in delivering healthcare locally, focusing upon health rather than illness. They have a major support role for families with pre-school children.
Educational requirements
Nurse qualified to diploma or degree level.
Training and qualifications
Additional one-year degree usually sponsored by NHS on full salary.
For Information
Hotel Services
Career description
Managers are responsible for planning and organising the work of supervisors who lead the team carrying out cleaning and other housekeeping tasks required for patients and staff.
Educational requirements
Managers: Degree, HND/BTEC or equivalent HCIMA qualification or practical experience of domestic services. Experience welcomed.
Training and qualifications
Managers: Hotel Services Development Programme.
Supervisors: City & Guilds 764 Cleaning Science, NEBSS or relevant supervisory experience.
The NHS offers supported training at all levels.
For Information
NHS Webpage: www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/829/page/45000
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Institute of Hospitality
Tel: 020 8661 4900
E-mail: info@instituteofhospitality.org
Web: www.instituteofhospitality.org
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Information and Communications Technology Staff
For more information
Develop the IT systems used throughout the NHS and support staff in using them.
Educational requirements
A range of opportunities exists for people with qualifications ranging from GCSEs, NVQs and GNVQs to degree level.
Training and qualifications
Opportunities to progress during employment supported by the NHS.
For more information
Health Informatics: www.wales.nhs.uk/hi-profile
Also see - Health Informatics Framework
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Laundry Services
Career description
These are looked after by Linen Services and Laundry Managers and their Laundry Operatives.
Educational requirements
Managers: need four GCSE subjects including maths, physical science and English with one at A level or equivalent.
Others may not need formal qualifications. Experience welcomed.
Training and qualifictions
Managers: in-house and external training courses available.
Supervisors: in-house and external training courses available.
Operatives: in-house training.
For more information
Also See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Librarians
Career description
Provide access to information via books, journals and electronic formats
Educational requirements
A levels or equivalent for degree
Training and qualifications
Degree or post graduate diploma or Masters in Library Studies
For more information
Health Informatics: www.wales.nhs.uk/hi-profile
Also see - Health Informatics Framework
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
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Management
Career description
Managers contribute to planning the quality and quantity of future patient care. The NHS has a good record of supporting staff development into management. The Management Training Programmes cover General, Human Resources, Health Informatics, Estates and Procurement.
Educational requirements
Direct entry: 2:2 degree or equivalent. Diversity in age, experience and background is welcome whether you’re a graduate, already working in the NHS or contemplating a career change. Seasoned professionals within health or any management function are welcomed.
Training and qualifications
Over the two year Management Training Programme, you will study for a Masters level degree in your chosen professional area. This intensive programme combines training, postgraduate study and work experience to provide the perfect introduction to modern NHS management. Professionals with relevant experience/qualifications may be eligible to apply for posts directly.
For more information
NLIAH, Innovation House, Bridgend Road
Llanharan CF72 9RP
www.nliah.wales.nhs.uk
Management Training in NHS England
Tel: 0870 169 9731
Web: www.come2life.nhs.uk
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Management Support
Career description
Management Support Services such as finance, Human Resources, supplies and planning are vital to Health Service general management. See also Administrative and Clerical, Finance and Management.
Educational requirements
Entry at GCSE, GNVQ, NVQ, A level, degree level, or with suitable professional qualifications or relevant experience.
Training and qualifications
The NHS offers supported study opportunities leading to a wide range of professional and general managerial qualifications.
For more information
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Medical Illustrator/Medical Photographer
Career description
Medical Illustrators provide a wide range of photographic services to both those involved in caring for patients and specialists working in medical and para‑medical areas. They will work closely with scientists, doctors, nurses and other health professionals associated with the delivery of health care.
Educational requirements
A Degree, HND or equivalent in photography, graphic design or video is normally required, although there is an accreditation scheme for applicants without these qualifications.
Training and qualifications
In-service training programme leading to BSc in Medical Illustration. One year distance learning course for appropriately qualified staff available, leading to Medical Illustrators’ post. Experience Certificate.
For more information
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Skillset, Sector Skills Council for the Audio
Visual Industries
Tel: 0800 012 1815
Web: www.skillset.org/photo/careers
Medical Physicists
Career description
Medical Physicists apply the principles of physics to patient diagnosis and treatment, many aspects of which use ionising or non‑ionising radiation in patient imaging or therapy. They work with patients, medical and technical staff and engineers.
Educational requirements
Normally, an honours degree in an engineering or physical science. Higher degrees or industrial experience may be valuable.
Training and qualifications
Two-year in-service training syllabus, which may incorporate a relevant MSc and usually counts towards Chartered status (CPhys).
For more information
Medical Technicians/Clinical Technicians
Career description
Medical Technicians are involved in the operation and maintenance of high‑tech equipment such as body scanners.
Educational requirements
Varies.
A levels or equivalent for degree.
Training and qualifica tions
NHS supported study may be offered at different levels. NHS sponsored degrees now available.
For more information
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Midwife
Career description
Midwives offer care, advice and planning for women and their families before, during and after pregnancy. They are skilled specialists in normal birth, but are also trained to recognise possible problems.
Educational requirements
Many will be Adult Nurses. or Degree entrants who are not nurses need to offer A levels or the equivalent.
Training and qualifications
Either an 18 month degree for Adult Nurses qualified to diploma/degree level. or A three year degree.
For more information
Molecular Geneticists
Career description
Molecular Geneticists examine cellular DNA for prenatal diagnosis of genetic abnormalities and to identify carriers or pre-symptomatic individuals at risk.
Educational requirements
Degree in genetics or relevant life science with genetics component.
Training and qualifications
Continuing study at Masters and PhD level supported by NHS.
For more information
Nurses
Career description
Includes: Registered Nurse in the following specialties: Adult, Mental Health, Learning Disability, or Child.
Educational requirements
A levels or equivalent for degree. 5 GCSEs with specified subjects or similar for diploma entry.
Training and qualifications
NHS funded 3 year degree includes 50% practice. Only degrees available in Wales, some diploma places are still available in England.
For more information
Occupational Therapist
Career description
Occupational Therapists assess and treat people using purposeful activity to prevent disability and promote independent function. Work with people who have learning disabilities, physical, psychological and social problems, enabling them to cope and adjust to everyday living.
Educational requirements
A levels or equivalent for degree entry.
Training and qualifications
NHS sponsored degrees available. Part-time courses available in some localities for those working in the NHS or social care. Accelerated 2 year route for graduates planned.
For more information
Operating Department Practitioners
Career description
Operating Department Practitioners are part of the operating theatre team. They assist surgeons and anaesthetists in carrying out intricate and complex procedures.
Educational requirements
Entry requirements to courses vary, but must be sufficient to enter a higher education course.
Training and qualifications
A two-year course leading to a Diploma in Higher Education.
For more information
Optician (Dispensing)
Career description
Dispensing Opticians conduct most of the follow up work once vision has been tested, making up spectacle and contact lenses to prescription.
Educational requirements
5 GCSE subjects (grade A-C) or equivalent in maths or physics, English Language or Literature, and a third science-based subject with the remaining two subjects being optional.
Training and qualifications
A two-year full-time course followed by one year working in practice under supervision Or a three-year day release combined with suitable employment Or a three year correspondence course combined with suitable employment.
For more information
General Optical Council
41 Harley Street
London W1N 2DJ
Web: www.optical.org
Optometrist
Career description
Optometrists perform eyesight tests and prescribe corrective lenses. They also play an important role in identifying various medical conditions.
Educational requirements
A levels or equivalent. Training and qualifications NHS sponsored degrees are available.
For more information
General Optical Council
41 Harley Street
London W1N 2DJ
Web: www.optical.org
Orthoptists
Career description
Orthoptists carry out the diagnosis and treatment of visual and eye movement disorders, such as squint and defective vision.
Educational requirements
A levels or equivalent for degree entry.
Training and qualifications
NHS sponsored degrees are available.
For more information
Orthotist
Career description
Orthotists provide a range of braces, splints and special footwear to treat deformities, aid movement and relieve discomfort.
Educational requirements
A levels or equivalent for degree entry.
Training and qualifications
NHS sponsored degrees are available.
For more information
Paramedic
Career description
A vital part of the emergency services. Often attending accidents, they assess the situation, provide emergency aid and transport to hospital. Paramedics undertake specialist training to give emergency pre-hospital treatment to patients.
Educational requirements
Driving licence including right to drive C1 vehicles useful. A levels or equivalent for diploma/degree.
Training and qualifications
NHS sponsored diploma/degree available.
For more information
Perfusionist
Career description
A vital member of the cardiac surgery team. Perfusionists operate life‑support equipment, pumping blood in cardiac surgery and other areas.
Educational requirements
Minimum of 2 A levels or equivalent.
Training and qualifications
In‑service training and study leading to a BSc Degree in Clinical Sciences (Perfusion).
For more in formation
Society of Clinical Perfusion Scientists 5th Floor
The Royal College of Surgeons of GB and Ireland
35-43 Lincolns Inn Fields, London WC2A3PN
Tel: 020 7869 6891 Web: www.scps.org.uk
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Pharmacist
Career description
Pharmacists manage hospital pharmacies and check the details, safety and accuracy of the prescriptions. They also make regular visits to the wards and advise medical and nursing staff on the use of drugs, as well as advising patients on how to manage their medicines to ensure optimal treatment.
Educational requirements
A levels in chemistry, plus two subjects from: biology, maths and physics for degree entry.
Training and qualifications
Full time study leading to a university degree in pharmacy, followed by one‑year pre‑registration practice course. Year‑end exam to become member of Royal Pharmaceutical Society.
For more information
Royal Pharmaceutical Society
E-mail: Wales@rpsgb.org.uk
Web: www.rpsgb.org.uk/wales
Pharmacy Technician
Career description
Pharmacy Technicians prepare and deliver drugs, store incoming drugs and make up sterile preparation.
Educational requirements
Normally four GCSEs or equivalent, at least one of which should be a science, preferably chemistry.
Training and qualifications
Two to three years’ in-service training leading to the NVQ3 in pharmacy services.
For more information
Email: Wales@rpsgb.org.uk
Web: www.rpsgb.org.uk/wales
Phlebotomist
Career description
Phlebotomists collect blood from patients for laboratory examination.
Educational requirements
No formal requirements.
Training and qualifications
In-service training leading to Certificate of Competence.
For more information
NHS Website: www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/829/page/45000
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
National Association of Phlebotomists
Web: www.phlebotomy.org
Physiotherapist
Career description
Physiotherapists help and treat people of all ages with physical problems caused by accident, ageing or illness. Assist with rehabilitation by developing and restoring the functions of the body.
Educational requirements
A levels or equivalent for degree entry.
Training and qualifications
Entry via an NHS sponsored degree.
For more information
Porter
Career description
Porters have a range of duties such as moving patients between wards and departments, and the collection and delivery of a whole range of supplies.
Educational requirements
No formal requirements
Training and qualifications
In service training provided.
For more information
Prosthetists
Career description
Prosthetists provide care and advice on rehabilitation for patients who have lost or were born without a limb, fitting the best possible artificial replacement.
Educational requirements
A levels or equivalent for entry to degree.
Training and qualifications
Entry via an NHS sponsored degree.
For more information
Psychologist
Career description
The NHS employs psychologists in four main specialisms; clinical work, counselling, forensic work and health psychology.
Educational requirements
Degree in Psychology and/or postgraduate diploma approved by the British Psychological Society (BPS) required for registration as a Chartered Psychologist.
Training and qualifications
Separate postgraduate training routes for the four branches of applied psychology. The NHS funds a number of training places for clinical psychologists.
For more information
The British Psychological Society
Tel: 0116 254 9568
Web: www.bps.org.uk
Cardiff University - Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
Bangor University - Doctorate in Clinical Psychology
Leeds University - Clearing House for Postgraduate Courses in Clinical Psychology
Radiographer
Career description
Diagnostic Radiographers produce high quality images on film and other recording material, which help doctors to diagnose disease and the extent of injuries. Therapeutic Radiographers work with a team of medical specialists in planning and treating malignant tumours or tissue defects with high energy radiation.
Educational requirements
A levels or equivalent for entry to degree.
Training and qualifications
Entry via an NHS sponsored degree.
For more information
Secretaries
Career description
Secretaries provide essential support services for senior staff including functional managers and clinicians. There are also Medical Secretaries who tend to work for consultants. Much of NHS work is team based and this may widen secretarial responsibilities.
Educational requirements
Good administrative and secretarial skills are essential. This will include keyboard skills, experience with standard software packages and may include shorthand.
Training and qualifications
Some Hospitals/Trusts provide training during employment.
For more information
NHS Website: www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/829/page/45000
Association of Medical Secretaries, Practice Managers
and Receptionists (AMSPAR), Tavistock House, North,
Tavistock Square, London WC1H 9LN
Web: www.amspar.co.uk
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Speech and Language Therapist
Career description
Speech and Language Therapists work with people of all ages with communication and/or swallowing difficulties.
Educational requirements
A levels or equivalent for entry to degree.
Training and qualifications
Entry via an NHS sponsored degree.
For more information
Sterile Services
Career description
Managers are responsible for the provision of sterile supplies required for patient care and the sterilisation of medical and patient-associated equipment. Assistants undertake the preparation of instruments and equipment.
Educational requirements
Managers: Five GCSEs Grade C, or equivalent, including maths, english language and a science subject.
Assistants: varies.
Training and qualifications
Managers: two to three years’ in-service training – The Institute of Decontamination Sciences/City & Guilds.
Assistants: In service training provided.
For more information
NHS Website: www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/829/page/45000
Vacancies are advertised in local press and Jobcentre Plus.
HR Department of local Hospital/Trust.
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
The Institute of Decontamination Sciences
Web: www.idsc-uk.co.uk
Stores Staff
Career description
Look after the collection and delivery of stores to various wards and departments and general stocktaking.
Educational requirements
Many jobs will require few qualifications, while more professional posts may require professional level qualifications.
Training and qualifications
In service training provided.
For more information
NHS Website: www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/829/page/45000
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk
Telephonists
Career description
Will deal with telephone enquiries, using increasingly complex telephone equipment.
Educational requirements
Varies
Training and qualifications
In service training provided.
For more information
NHS Website: www.wales.nhs.uk/sitesplus/829/page/45000
See NHS jobs website www.jobs.nhs.uk