Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) in Cardiothoracic

The closing date is 15 June 2025

Job summary

We are pleased to offer an exciting opportunity for an aspiring Trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) to join the Cardiothoracic Ward Team at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. At STH we recognise the vital role ACPs play in delivering high-quality, flexible care and new ways of working. We are looking for a passionate and driven trainee who is committed to providing excellent clinical care and developing the autonomy required for advanced practice. As a trainee, you willundertake a fully supported MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice while developing the advanced clinical skills necessary to support our patients and teams.

The apprenticeship is Agenda for Change Band 6 rising to Band 7 once the post holder has successfully demonstrated the completion of the relevant Advanced Practice Post Graduate Diploma, and a portfolio of evidence containing supervised learning events which demonstrate completion of the clinical element of the core curriculum outlined in the Multi-Professional Advanced Clinical Practice Framework (HEE 2017). Progression to Band 8a on completion of the full MSc

Main duties of the job

Significant investment has been made at STH in developing our ACP workforce to ensure patients receive timely, expert care. We are looking for a self-motivated and enthusiastic trainee with astrong desire to grow into an exceptional clinical leader.

In this role, you will:

  • Deliver high-quality, person-centred care in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.
  • Work collaboratively within an established and supportive ACP team.
  • Contribute to improving patient outcomes for our population in Sheffield through expert and holistic assessment and clinical decision-making within the area of work under direct or indirect supervision of a Consultant Mentor / supervisor.
  • Develop strong leadership and clinical competencies aligned with the four pillars of advanced practice.

Applicants are welcomed from those professional groups eligible to undertake non-medical prescribing under current statutory requirements.

About us

You will be joining a dynamic and expanding Advanced Clinical Practitioner team where there will be opportunities to contribute not only to clinical care, but also to quality improvement, education and research. Your training will be supported by the Advanced Practice (AP) Academy at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals who provide a structured yet supportive training environment for trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioners (ACPs). The Academy brings together key elements such as education, supervision, clinical training, and professional development, all aligned with national standards and the four pillars of advanced practice. The Academy works closely with local universities and offers tailored learning opportunities, including a comprehensive induction, simulation, study days, and regular peer support forums. With strong governance and a focus on consistency and quality, it creates a positive learning environment where trainees feel supported, stay on track, and develop the confidence and competence needed to become safe, effective, and autonomous ACPs.

The programme follows the NHS Apprenticeship route, combining academic study with practical, on the-job experience. Course fees are fully funded, and you will get protected supervised learning time. Some travel may be required.

Details

Date posted

06 June 2025

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 6

Salary

£37,338 to £52,809 a year pa/pro rata for part time staff

Contract

Apprenticeship

Duration

3 years

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

190-0425-TACP

Job locations

Northern General Hospital

Herries Road

Sheffield

S5 7AU


Job description

Job responsibilities

  • Trainee ACP posts are temporary and dependent on successful completion of the MSc and required competencies which include a clinical portfolio, providing evidence of the HEE capabilities for advanced clinical practice and speciality specific competencies in practice

  • Due to the nature of ACP training, and time limits on academic studies, tACPs must work a minimum of 30 hours per week.

  • On completion, you will be offered a permanent ACP position in the specialty in which you trained and will be eligible to progress to Band 8a through the ACP Gateway Assessment process.

  • Apprenticeship eligibility: Due to UK apprenticeship funding regulations you must have the right to work in the UK, and for EU citizens, hold pre-settled or settled status with three years continuous UK or EU residence or have indefinite leave to remain with documents that are not due to expire during the duration of the apprenticeship contract. If you are not in this position, your application will be considered alongside all other applications, as alternative routes to the apprenticeship are available. You must not already hold a qualification at a higher level in the same subject

We value innovation and good use of technology, but your application should reflect your personal experiences and strengths. Overuse of AI-generated or generic content may negatively impact your chances, particularly if similar content appears across multiple applications. At STH we are committed to providing a flexible working environment where possible. Whether you are balancing family, study, or your wellbeing with your career, we want to support you so you can help our patients. We proudly champion individuality, recognizing that outstanding care is only possible with a diverse, inclusive team. We're committed to creating an anti-racist, anti-discriminatory environment where everyone feels valued, safe, and empowered to make a meaningful impact in our communities. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to join us in building a healthcare community where everyone can belong, thrive, and contribute. Join us and help shape the future of advanced clinical practice at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals.

Detailed Job Description & Main Responsibilities:

Please see attached job description and Person Specification for further information

Job description

Job responsibilities

  • Trainee ACP posts are temporary and dependent on successful completion of the MSc and required competencies which include a clinical portfolio, providing evidence of the HEE capabilities for advanced clinical practice and speciality specific competencies in practice

  • Due to the nature of ACP training, and time limits on academic studies, tACPs must work a minimum of 30 hours per week.

  • On completion, you will be offered a permanent ACP position in the specialty in which you trained and will be eligible to progress to Band 8a through the ACP Gateway Assessment process.

  • Apprenticeship eligibility: Due to UK apprenticeship funding regulations you must have the right to work in the UK, and for EU citizens, hold pre-settled or settled status with three years continuous UK or EU residence or have indefinite leave to remain with documents that are not due to expire during the duration of the apprenticeship contract. If you are not in this position, your application will be considered alongside all other applications, as alternative routes to the apprenticeship are available. You must not already hold a qualification at a higher level in the same subject

We value innovation and good use of technology, but your application should reflect your personal experiences and strengths. Overuse of AI-generated or generic content may negatively impact your chances, particularly if similar content appears across multiple applications. At STH we are committed to providing a flexible working environment where possible. Whether you are balancing family, study, or your wellbeing with your career, we want to support you so you can help our patients. We proudly champion individuality, recognizing that outstanding care is only possible with a diverse, inclusive team. We're committed to creating an anti-racist, anti-discriminatory environment where everyone feels valued, safe, and empowered to make a meaningful impact in our communities. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to join us in building a healthcare community where everyone can belong, thrive, and contribute. Join us and help shape the future of advanced clinical practice at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals.

Detailed Job Description & Main Responsibilities:

Please see attached job description and Person Specification for further information

Person Specification

Education and Qualifications

Essential

  • Registered Nurse with Valid NMC registration or Health Care Professional and registered with HCPC with relevant clinical experience
  • The candidate must be eligible to apply for and willing to complete a full MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice. Eligibility criteria includes an Honours degree at 2.2 or above in a related health care subject. Alternatively, evidence of completion of pre-entry assessment at HEI or successful level 7 study will also be considered.
  • Where possible study is funded via the apprenticeship route. If undertaking Apprentice programme, the candidate must be able to demonstrate GCSE English and Maths at C or above or functional skills assessment level 2. If unable to evidence the trainee must complete the functional skills assessment by the end of the Master's Programme (apprenticeship requirement).
  • Evidence of relevant continuous professional development
  • Advanced life support qualification (ALS/ILS) or willingness to undertake and successfully complete

Desirable

  • Post Graduate qualification in Advanced Practice
  • Advanced Physical Assessment module, Non-Medical Prescribing (if part of proposed role)
  • Recognised Teaching & Assessment Qualification or equivalent experience
  • Recognised Leadership Award/qualification or equivalent experience

Experience

Essential

  • Experience of delivering training / education to others
  • Extensive relevant post registration experience (HEI requirement
  • Evidence of multi-disciplinary team working
  • Experience of working in cardiothoracic or cardiology care

Desirable

  • Experience of working in an extended role with experience of autonomous practice
  • Experience of undertaking service improvement activity
  • Evidence of contribution to audit and research programs
  • Clinical / managerial leadership experience, including line management of staff, e.g. sickness/absence, recruitment/selection

Skills and Knowledge

Essential

  • Can prioritise and manage own workload when faced with conflicting pressures
  • High standard of written and verbal communication - able to present and receive complex information and communicate effectively with all grades of staff and patients / families
  • Ability to manage self and maintain professional conduct in difficult and challenging situations
  • Demonstrates ability to work/learn self-directed

Desirable

  • In depth knowledge of pathophysiology of common conditions seen in the speciality and their management
  • Excellent presentation skills
  • Ability to order and interpret appropriate clinical investigations
  • Study of therapeutics/diagnostics
  • Able to analyse and synthesise patient information to formulate appropriate diagnoses and management plans
  • Effective leadership, negotiation and reasoning skills with the ability to influence, coach and motivate others

Personal Qualities

Essential

  • Team player with a professional approach to work and colleagues; able to develop good working relationships
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently.
  • Shows respect, courtesy, and professionalism in all contacts
  • Patient focussed with a 'can do' attitude
  • Commitment to staff development and training
  • Flexible in order to meet the needs of the service
  • Competent and confident approach to practice with ability to work under pressure
Person Specification

Education and Qualifications

Essential

  • Registered Nurse with Valid NMC registration or Health Care Professional and registered with HCPC with relevant clinical experience
  • The candidate must be eligible to apply for and willing to complete a full MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice. Eligibility criteria includes an Honours degree at 2.2 or above in a related health care subject. Alternatively, evidence of completion of pre-entry assessment at HEI or successful level 7 study will also be considered.
  • Where possible study is funded via the apprenticeship route. If undertaking Apprentice programme, the candidate must be able to demonstrate GCSE English and Maths at C or above or functional skills assessment level 2. If unable to evidence the trainee must complete the functional skills assessment by the end of the Master's Programme (apprenticeship requirement).
  • Evidence of relevant continuous professional development
  • Advanced life support qualification (ALS/ILS) or willingness to undertake and successfully complete

Desirable

  • Post Graduate qualification in Advanced Practice
  • Advanced Physical Assessment module, Non-Medical Prescribing (if part of proposed role)
  • Recognised Teaching & Assessment Qualification or equivalent experience
  • Recognised Leadership Award/qualification or equivalent experience

Experience

Essential

  • Experience of delivering training / education to others
  • Extensive relevant post registration experience (HEI requirement
  • Evidence of multi-disciplinary team working
  • Experience of working in cardiothoracic or cardiology care

Desirable

  • Experience of working in an extended role with experience of autonomous practice
  • Experience of undertaking service improvement activity
  • Evidence of contribution to audit and research programs
  • Clinical / managerial leadership experience, including line management of staff, e.g. sickness/absence, recruitment/selection

Skills and Knowledge

Essential

  • Can prioritise and manage own workload when faced with conflicting pressures
  • High standard of written and verbal communication - able to present and receive complex information and communicate effectively with all grades of staff and patients / families
  • Ability to manage self and maintain professional conduct in difficult and challenging situations
  • Demonstrates ability to work/learn self-directed

Desirable

  • In depth knowledge of pathophysiology of common conditions seen in the speciality and their management
  • Excellent presentation skills
  • Ability to order and interpret appropriate clinical investigations
  • Study of therapeutics/diagnostics
  • Able to analyse and synthesise patient information to formulate appropriate diagnoses and management plans
  • Effective leadership, negotiation and reasoning skills with the ability to influence, coach and motivate others

Personal Qualities

Essential

  • Team player with a professional approach to work and colleagues; able to develop good working relationships
  • Self-motivated and able to work independently.
  • Shows respect, courtesy, and professionalism in all contacts
  • Patient focussed with a 'can do' attitude
  • Commitment to staff development and training
  • Flexible in order to meet the needs of the service
  • Competent and confident approach to practice with ability to work under pressure

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Certificate of Sponsorship

Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

Additional information

Disclosure and Barring Service Check

This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Certificate of Sponsorship

Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. For further information visit the UK Visas and Immigration website (Opens in a new tab).

From 6 April 2017, skilled worker applicants, applying for entry clearance into the UK, have had to present a criminal record certificate from each country they have resided continuously or cumulatively for 12 months or more in the past 10 years. Adult dependants (over 18 years old) are also subject to this requirement. Guidance can be found here Criminal records checks for overseas applicants (Opens in a new tab).

UK Registration

Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

Employer details

Employer name

Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Address

Northern General Hospital

Herries Road

Sheffield

S5 7AU


Employer's website

https://www.sth.nhs.uk (Opens in a new tab)

Employer details

Employer name

Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Address

Northern General Hospital

Herries Road

Sheffield

S5 7AU


Employer's website

https://www.sth.nhs.uk (Opens in a new tab)

Employer contact details

For questions about the job, contact:

Cardiothoracic matron

Jane Pagett

jane.pagett@nhs.net

01142266861

Details

Date posted

06 June 2025

Pay scheme

Agenda for change

Band

Band 6

Salary

£37,338 to £52,809 a year pa/pro rata for part time staff

Contract

Apprenticeship

Duration

3 years

Working pattern

Full-time

Reference number

190-0425-TACP

Job locations

Northern General Hospital

Herries Road

Sheffield

S5 7AU


Supporting documents

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