At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our team to perform diagnostic tests and support patient care in respiratory and sleep physiology.
- Company: Dorset County Hospital is dedicated to providing high-quality, compassionate healthcare services.
- Benefits: Enjoy a fully funded degree apprenticeship while earning a competitive salary and gaining hands-on experience.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on patients' lives while developing your skills in a supportive, inclusive environment.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English, Maths, and Science; A-levels in Biology or Chemistry required.
- Other info: This role offers a pathway to becoming a registered Clinical Physiologist upon successful completion.
Job Summary
We are looking to recruit an Apprentice Healthcare Science Practitioner (Physiological Sciences) to join our friendly team at Dorset County Hospital.
We are offering a fully funded BSc (Hons) degree level apprenticeship in Healthcare Science, starting in September 2025, whilst being paid an apprenticeship salary. The Degree Course requires attendance at UWE Bristol (e.g. 3 separate block weeks per year, over 3 years) as well as 1 day per week online learning and support. You will join the Respiratory and Sleep physiology team at Dorset County Hospital and begin to develop the necessary skills and knowledge, as well as supporting the overall functioning of the department.
The work involves a high level of patient contact, performing a variety of diagnostic investigations on the respiratory system. Investigations include measurements of lung capacity, gas exchange and airway patency, exercise tests, challenge tests, sleep studies and assessments for air travel. These investigations have particular relevance to patients with many different types of chest disease, with sleep-disordered breathing and patients awaiting surgery.
Applicants Should Have:
GCSE Grade C or above in English Language, Mathematics and Double Science and
A-level Grade C or above in Biology or Chemistry, and a pass in another science subject.
Equivalent Qualifications Or Professional Experience May Also Be Accepted.
Main duties of the job
To train to provide a comprehensive Clinical Respiratory Diagnostic Service and Sleep Diagnostic Service
Assist in the provision of more complex aspects of the Clinical Respiratory and Sleep Diagnostic Services
Undertake the Healthcare Science Practitioner (Physiological Sciences) Degree Apprenticeship (provided by UWE, Bristol) and the ARTP Practitioner Examination.
On successful completion of training the post-holder will be eligible for registration as a Clinical Physiologist.
About Us
At DCHFT, we pride ourselves on the care we provide for our patients, and on the culture, we are creating for our staff. We work hard to create a fair, inclusive environment for our staff.
Our Mission is to work in partnership to provide high quality, compassionate services and to nurture an environment where people can be at their best. Our vision is healthier lives, empowered citizens, thriving communities.
We are a Trust that celebrates diversity, and we are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We welcome applications from people in all under-represented groups.
Details
Date posted
20 June 2025
Pay scheme
Agenda for change
Band
Band 3
Salary
£24,625 to £25,674 a year per annum
Contract
Fixed term
Duration
36 months
Working pattern
Full-time
Reference number
405-25-HS289RESP
Job locations
Dorset County Hospital
Williams Avenue
Dorchester
DT1 2JY
Job Description
Job responsibilities
To work as part of the multi-disciplinary respiratory medicine team to provide a comprehensive and efficient service of the highest quality.
The Apprentice Healthcare Science Practitioner will train to perform routine Respiratory & Sleep investigations, presenting and checking results, and writing reports.
- The post holder will also assist senior colleagues in more advanced/complex procedures
Diagnostic Testing
- To perform a range of routine respiratory investigations and interpret as necessary
- (including Spirometry, Full PFTs, Walk Tests, Plethysmography, FENO, Methacholine Challenge & Overnight Oximetry).
- To assist with other non-routine tests (e.g. Exercise, Sleep Studies, etc).
- To assist in running the physiologist-led sleep service and ILD clinics.
- To produce technically accurate results in accordance with local and national guidelines, adhering to safety and infection control policies.
- Be competent in manipulating lung function and general computer software to ensure accurate results and clear reports.
- Administrative duties, including stock control and managing inpatient and outpatient appointments. (Allocating resources, including staff, to ensure efficient use.)
- Be responsible for the maintenance, quality assurance, calibration and infection control of all lung function equipment.
Professional
- Maintain a high standard of clinical practice including CPD and achieve the standards required for registration at the end of training.
- To recognise the limits of your abilities and therefore be able to ask questions of your line managers.
- To be reliable, punctual and flexible at all times and maintain a smart appearance.
- To participate in departmental audit and research projects including publication at national level.
Teaching & Training
- Undertake the Healthcare Science Practitioner (Physiological Sciences) Degree Apprenticeship (requires attendance at UWE, Bristol).
- To provide education and training on respiratory diagnostic procedures to other healthcare professionals when deemed competent (in particular supporting the delivery of spirometry testing in outpatient departments and primary care locations).
- To attend and present at departmental educational meetings.
Departmental
- To contribute to service development including regular department meetings.
- Develop and review departmental protocols and guidelines in accordance with published evidence and best practice.
- To assist with the daily administrative duties and maintenance of departmental records.
- Inputting data and generating reports from the various departmental databases.
- Appropriate use of hospital information systems including timely uploading of test results.
Job description
Job responsibilities
To work as part of the multi-disciplinary respiratory medicine team to provide a comprehensive and efficient service of the highest quality.
The Apprentice Healthcare Science Practitioner will train to perform routine Respiratory & Sleep investigations, presenting and checking results, and writing reports.
- The post holder will also assist senior colleagues in more advanced/complex procedures
Diagnostic Testing
- To perform a range of routine respiratory investigations and interpret as necessary
- (including Spirometry, Full PFTs, Walk Tests, Plethysmography, FENO, Methacholine Challenge & Overnight Oximetry).
- To assist with other non-routine tests (e.g. Exercise, Sleep Studies, etc).
- To assist in running the physiologist-led sleep service and ILD clinics.
- To produce technically accurate results in accordance with local and national guidelines, adhering to safety and infection control policies.
- Be competent in manipulating lung function and general computer software to ensure accurate results and clear reports.
- Administrative duties, including stock control and managing inpatient and outpatient appointments. (Allocating resources, including staff, to ensure efficient use.)
- Be responsible for the maintenance, quality assurance, calibration and infection control of all lung function equipment.
Professional
- Maintain a high standard of clinical practice including CPD and achieve the standards required for registration at the end of training.
- To recognise the limits of your abilities and therefore be able to ask questions of your line managers.
- To be reliable, punctual and flexible at all times and maintain a smart appearance.
- To participate in departmental audit and research projects including publication at national level.
Teaching & Training
- Undertake the Healthcare Science Practitioner (Physiological Sciences) Degree Apprenticeship (requires attendance at UWE, Bristol).
- To provide education and training on respiratory diagnostic procedures to other healthcare professionals when deemed competent (in particular supporting the delivery of spirometry testing in outpatient departments and primary care locations).
- To attend and present at departmental educational meetings.
Departmental
- To contribute to service development including regular department meetings.
- Develop and review departmental protocols and guidelines in accordance with published evidence and best practice.
- To assist with the daily administrative duties and maintenance of departmental records.
- Inputting data and generating reports from the various departmental databases.
- Appropriate use of hospital information systems including timely uploading of test results.
Person Specification
Essential
EDUCATION, QUALIFICATIONS & TRAINING
- GCSE Grade C or above in English Language, Mathematics and Double Science
- A-level Grade C or above in Biology or Chemistry, and a pass in another science subject (or equivalent)
Essential
KNOWLEDGE & EXPERIENCE
- Ability to work both alone and in a team
- Able to demonstrate academic commitment
Desirable
- Previous work experience NHS or working with public/ patients
- Working within a multi-disciplinary environment
- Ability to maintain effective working relationships with colleagues
Essential
SKILLS & ABILITIES
- Commitment to undertake degree course
- Able to travel to/from, or stay in, Bristol during university blocks
Desirable
- Understand patient confidentiality and treating patients with respect and sensitivity
- Interpersonal and communication skills
- Well organised; able to prioritise workload and deliver work within set time limits
- Maintain high standards of hygiene and appearance
- A general understanding of Respiratory Anatomy & Physiology
Person Specification
Essential
- Commitment to undertake degree course
- Able to travel to/from, or stay in, Bristol during university blocks
Desirable
- Understand patient confidentiality and treating patients with respect and sensitivity
- Interpersonal and communication skills
- Well organised; able to prioritise workload and deliver work within set time limits
- Maintain high standards of hygiene and appearance
- A general understanding of Respiratory Anatomy & Physiology
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.
Employer details
Employer name
Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Address
Dorset County Hospital
Williams Avenue
Dorchester
DT1 2JY
Employer\’s website
https://www.dchft.nhs.uk/working-for-us/ (Opens in a new tab)
Employer details
Employer name
Dorset County Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Address
Dorset County Hospital
Williams Avenue
Dorchester
DT1 2JY
Employer\’s website
https://www.dchft.nhs.uk/working-for-us/ (Opens in a new tab)
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Apprentice Respiratory and Sleep Clinical Physiologist employer: Antistatique
Contact Detail:
Antistatique Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Apprentice Respiratory and Sleep Clinical Physiologist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific diagnostic tests mentioned in the job description, such as Spirometry and Overnight Oximetry. Understanding these procedures will not only help you during interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current or former employees of Dorset County Hospital on LinkedIn. Engaging with them can provide you with insider knowledge about the work culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Attend any relevant workshops or webinars related to respiratory and sleep physiology. This not only enhances your knowledge but also demonstrates your commitment to the field, making you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship programme and the team dynamics at Dorset County Hospital. Asking insightful questions during your interview can set you apart and show that you are serious about your future in this role.
We think you need these skills to ace Apprentice Respiratory and Sleep Clinical Physiologist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the responsibilities and requirements of the Apprentice Healthcare Science Practitioner position. Tailor your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with these expectations.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Make sure to clearly state your GCSEs and A-levels, especially in English, Mathematics, Biology, and Chemistry. If you have equivalent qualifications or relevant experience, mention these as well to strengthen your application.
Showcase Your Commitment: Express your enthusiasm for the degree apprenticeship and your commitment to the healthcare field. Discuss any previous experiences that demonstrate your dedication to learning and working in a clinical environment.
Personalise Your Application: Use a friendly yet professional tone in your cover letter. Mention why you want to work at Dorset County Hospital specifically, and how you can contribute to their mission of providing high-quality, compassionate services.
How to prepare for a job interview at Antistatique
✨Know Your Basics
Make sure you have a solid understanding of respiratory anatomy and physiology. Brush up on key concepts related to lung function tests and sleep studies, as these will likely come up during your interview.
✨Show Your Passion for Patient Care
Since this role involves a high level of patient contact, be prepared to discuss your commitment to providing compassionate care. Share any relevant experiences where you've demonstrated empathy and effective communication with patients.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
The job requires working within a multi-disciplinary team. Be ready to provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with others in previous roles or projects, highlighting your ability to maintain effective working relationships.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, the team, and the training process. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.