NHS Barnsley Clinical Commissioning Group has committed to invest in 40 new apprenticeships working in GP practices across the borough.

The CCG has developed a significant three-year programme to develop business administration and healthcare assistant roles, starting this year.

The large-scale programme will include a full training package for the apprentices, which will build both general skills for the workplace as well those which will see them ready to take up posts in busy GP practices. Apprentices will also be provided with ongoing support so they can build up a network, helping with their professional development.

GP practices across the borough are being invited to join the scheme to host an apprentice, with the aim of development programme for 40 people.

Vicky Peverelle, Chief of Corporate Affairs, Barnsley CCG said: “Being able to invest in local communities is really important for us. The workforce of the NHS is changing and the skills needed are really wide ranging. Developing career opportunities for a future NHS workforce, from talent within Barnsley, is really exciting and we’re looking forward to meeting the first cohort later in the year.”

The apprenticeship programme is being developed with Barnsley College, who have already worked with some GP practices to place apprentices.

Kira Rosser took up an apprenticeship role as a healthcare assistant with The Kakoty Practice in 2014. Kira said: “My Apprenticeship has allowed me to gain qualifications and a job that I absolutely love. I have had support from my assessor to ensure I complete all of my assignments on time and to a high standard. I would recommend anyone who is thinking about applying for an apprenticeship to do it! All of the effort you put in definitely pays off. I’m extremely proud to be an apprentice.”

Marie Hoyle, business manager at The Kakoty Practice said: “It has been particularly rewarding to watch the development of our healthcare assistant apprentice, which has not only led to her employment with the practice as a fully-skilled healthcare assistant but has also resulted in Kira winning Cache Apprentice of the Year Award 2015.

The apprenticeship programme offers employers a chance to nurture potential new roles and allows individuals to learn as they progress towards employment eligibility. Kira has embraced the opportunity she has been afforded through the apprenticeship programme and the practice and its patients have benefited as a result.”