Ofsted report highlights strength of Health Sciences University’s apprenticeship provision
Health Sciences University (HSU) has welcomed the publication of its first Ofsted apprenticeship inspection report, which found the University’s apprenticeship provision meets the expected standard across all assessed areas and highlights its strong partnerships with healthcare employers, high-quality student support and industry-focused learning.
Inspectors recognised HSU’s close collaboration with health and care organisations across the UK, noting that the University has developed productive relationships with employers that help ensure apprenticeship programmes are aligned with the workforce needs of the NHS and wider healthcare sector.
The report also highlighted HSU’s investment in advanced teaching and learning facilities, including clinical simulation environments where apprentices can practise patient assessment, physical examination and decision-making skills in realistic healthcare settings. These facilities help learners develop the confidence, knowledge and practical skills required in modern clinical practice.
Apprentices spoke positively about their experiences at HSU, telling inspectors that they enjoy their studies, feel safe and value the opportunity to gain qualifications that directly support their professional development. The report found that learners benefit from approachable and knowledgeable staff and appreciate the personalised support available throughout their studies.
Ofsted also recognised the University’s strong culture of support and inclusion. Inspectors noted that dedicated teams work closely with apprentices before and during their programmes to identify and address barriers to learning, helping students to succeed and progress. Apprentices who require additional support were found to be making progress at least as well as their peers.
The report praised the expertise of HSU’s academic staff, highlighting how lecturers draw on extensive clinical experience to bring real-world knowledge and insight into teaching. Apprentices benefit from a combination of online and face-to-face learning, collaborative discussion and practical activities that help them apply learning directly in the workplace.
Inspectors also recognised the contribution apprentices are making within their organisations. The report found that learners develop advanced clinical, digital and communication skills, enabling them to become increasingly valuable members of healthcare teams while preparing for progression into more advanced professional roles.
Professor Lesley Haig, Vice-Chancellor of Health Sciences University, said:
“We are delighted that Ofsted has recognised the quality of our apprenticeship provision and the positive experiences of both our apprentices and employer partners.
“This report reflects the dedication of our academic and professional services teams, the commitment of our apprentices and the strength of our partnerships with healthcare organisations across the country.
“As a specialist health sciences university, we are committed to developing the highly skilled healthcare workforce needed for the future. We are particularly pleased that Ofsted recognised the supportive and inclusive environment we have created, alongside our investment in innovative learning facilities and the expertise of our staff.”
The inspection covered HSU’s growing apprenticeship portfolio, which supports healthcare professionals across the NHS and wider health sector. Programmes currently include Advanced Clinical Practice, Enhanced Clinical Practice, Dietetics, Diagnostic Radiography, Occupational Therapy and Speech and Language Therapy.
The findings reinforce Health Sciences University’s position as a trusted educator of healthcare professionals and a valued partner to employers working to develop the healthcare workforce of the future.
