NHS Ayrshire & Arran’s first group of graduate Assistant Practitioners are celebrating after completing their studies. 

Nineteen health care support workers from Acute Services in NHS Ayrshire & Arran have successfully completed their Professional Development Award in Acute and Community Care at SCQF Level 8, in collaboration with Ayrshire College.

The newly qualified Assistant Practitioners will assist and support multidisciplinary teams to deliver high-quality care for those living in Ayrshire.

The new role will help to plan and carry out holistic, protocol-based care, under the direction and supervision of healthcare practitioners such as registered nurses.

One of the graduates, Trevor McKnight, Assistant Practitioner at University Hospital Crosshouse, said: “When the new posts were advertised, I was excited to get an interview and further my career in healthcare.

"I was ready for the challenge and it was great to meet and learn with the other trainee assistant practitioners.

“I managed to get through all the hard work with the help and support from my college lecturers, mentor and senior charge nurse.

“Since qualifying, I feel part of a team and really feel that I can make a difference and give great support to the nurses that I work with.”

Jen Pennycook, Chief Nurse of Professional Development, added: “We are delighted to work with Ayrshire College to continue to develop our workforce.

“We want to congratulate our 19 newly qualified Assistant Practitioners for their hard work and determination over the last 12 months.

“Now they have completed their training, they can go on and apply their knowledge and skills, and help to provide effective, safe and person-centred care, in collaboration with families and carers.”