At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a dynamic team to manage complex spinal and MSK cases with increasing autonomy.
- Company: Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, committed to inclusivity and professional growth.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, career development support, and a vibrant community in North Devon.
- Other info: Enjoy stunning coastlines and countryside while building a rewarding career.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in patient care while advancing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in MSK practice and a passion for leadership and education.
The predicted salary is between 57528 - 64750 € per year.
An exciting opportunity has arisen within the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust (RDUH) for a Trainee Advanced Practitioner in MSK/Spinal and Lower Limb to join the Orthopaedic Interface Service (OIFS), based in North Devon. This post offers the opportunity to learn and work as part of a highly regarded, consultant-supported spinal and MSK service, with a primary focus on spinal conditions alongside some lower limb work. You will be embedded within the Northern service while being an integral part of the wider RDUH spinal pathway, including collaboration with the tertiary spinal unit in Exeter.
Our service operates within the Devon-wide Single Point of Access (SPOA) for spinal conditions, ensuring streamlined, equitable access to specialist care and consistent pathway delivery across the region.
About the Role
This is a substantive Trainee Advanced Practice role, within a forward-thinking, multidisciplinary team, Orthopaedic Interface Service, based in North Devon. You will work towards a high level of clinical autonomy while being fully supported through:
- Consultant Physiotherapist leadership and mentorship
- NHSE/Local AP Competency and capability
- Working towards full MSc
- Robust governance from the Consultant Spinal Surgical Group
- Regular MDT working across North Devon and Exeter sites
A Trainee Advanced Practitioner (AP) in MSK follows a structured, supported development pathway designed to build capability across the four pillars of advanced practice. This typically involves undertaking a relevant postgraduate MSc in Advanced Practice alongside supervised clinical practice, where competencies are achieved progressively through a defined framework and portfolio. Trainees work under regular clinical supervision and mentorship from experienced Advanced Practitioners and consultants, with protected time for learning, reflection, and academic study. Development is mapped against agreed capabilities, including advanced assessment, clinical reasoning, investigation and management skills, with formal sign-off at key stages. Governance processes such as case-based discussion, direct observation, and portfolio review ensure safe progression toward increasing autonomy. By completion, the trainee is expected to demonstrate independent practice, leadership within MSK pathways, and contribution to education and service development, meeting the standards set by national Advanced Practice frameworks.
The Orthopaedic Interface Service is central to ensuring patients receive the right care, at the right time, in the right place, reducing unnecessary surgical referrals and improving patient outcomes across the system.
Key Features of the Service
- Advanced clinical assessment and expert diagnostic reasoning
- Direct access to imaging (X-ray, MRI, ultrasound) and investigations
- Delivery of specialist interventions, including injection therapy
- Close integration with Orthopaedics, Pain Services, Rheumatology, and Neurology
- Participation in Devon-wide spinal SPOA pathways
- Cross-site MDT collaboration with the Exeter tertiary spinal unit
Key Responsibilities
- Manage complex spinal and MSK presentations with decreasing supervision
- Request, interpret, and act on diagnostic investigations
- Contribute to surgical decision-making and pathway optimisation
- Deliver high-quality, patient-centred care with advanced clinical autonomy
- Support ongoing development of the OIFS and wider spinal pathway
- Work collaboratively with Consultant Physiotherapists and clinical leaders
- Contribute to innovation, service improvement, and pathway redesign
- Promote integrated working across primary, community, and secondary care
- Provide mentorship, supervision, and teaching to colleagues
- Support workforce development across the MSK pathway
- Engage in audit, service evaluation, and research activity
About You
- Has significant experience in MSK practice, particularly spinal conditions
- Demonstrates advanced clinical reasoning and decision-making skills
- Is confident working autonomously within a supported governance framework
- Has a passion for service development, leadership, and education
- Thrives in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment
Working Pattern
37.5 hours per week
Location
North Devon is an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, offering an exceptional quality of life with stunning coastlines, countryside, and a strong sense of community. It is an inspiring place to live and work, combining professional opportunity with lifestyle benefits.
Benefits
The OIFS actively promotes professional growth and career development, collaborative leadership across the MSK and spinal pathway, innovation and service transformation at scale. As an inclusive employer, the Royal Devon values diversity and is committed to creating a culture of inclusivity where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential. We believe in fostering a sense of belonging and actively encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, cultures, and abilities. We recognise the advantages of having a diverse workforce that reflects the communities we serve.
Preference will be given to staff with ‘Priority’ and ‘At Risk’ status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon. We will work together to maintain a culture that develops and supports you and your team. This might include funding for a care certificate, a degree or leadership qualifications, days off to study, engage in CPD or rotational placements. Wherever you are heading in the NHS, we will help you get there.
We offer a competitive salary and a range of benefits:
- Salary Band 8a: £57,528‑£64,750 per annum pro rata
- Frequency Annual
- Contract Type Permanent
Contact
For further information please contact: James Rodger, Consultant Physiotherapist on james.rodger@nhs.net
Trainee Advanced Practitioner in Barnstaple employer: Rdehospital
The Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment for Trainee Advanced Practitioners in North Devon. With a strong focus on professional growth, mentorship from experienced consultants, and a commitment to inclusivity, employees are empowered to thrive while enjoying the stunning natural beauty of the region. The Trust actively promotes career development opportunities, ensuring that staff can achieve their full potential in a fulfilling and rewarding healthcare career.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee Advanced Practitioner in Barnstaple
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get chatting with folks in the MSK and spinal fields, whether at events or online. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your experience and achievements in MSK practice. This will not only impress potential employers but also give you confidence during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Do mock interviews with friends or mentors to get comfortable with common questions. This will help you articulate your passion for advanced practice and your vision for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in joining our team at RDUH.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee Advanced Practitioner in Barnstaple
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience in MSK practice and any relevant skills. We want to see how you fit into our team, so don’t hold back on showcasing your passion for spinal conditions!
Showcase Your Autonomy:Since this role involves a high level of clinical autonomy, it’s important to demonstrate your ability to work independently. Share examples from your past experiences where you’ve made decisions or led initiatives in a clinical setting.
Highlight Collaborative Skills:We thrive in a multidisciplinary environment, so be sure to mention any teamwork experiences. Talk about how you’ve worked with other healthcare professionals to improve patient outcomes or develop services.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can get back to you as soon as possible. We’re excited to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Rdehospital
✨Know Your MSK and Spinal Conditions
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of musculoskeletal and spinal conditions. Be prepared to discuss specific cases you've encountered and how you managed them. This shows your practical experience and understanding of the role.
✨Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit
Since this role involves working within a multidisciplinary team, highlight your teamwork skills. Share examples of how you've successfully collaborated with other healthcare professionals in the past, and how you can contribute to the Orthopaedic Interface Service.
✨Prepare for Clinical Scenarios
Expect to be asked about clinical decision-making and advanced assessment techniques. Practise articulating your thought process in managing complex cases, as this will demonstrate your clinical reasoning and autonomy.
✨Express Your Passion for Development
The role emphasises professional growth and service improvement. Be ready to discuss your commitment to ongoing education and how you plan to contribute to the development of the OIFS. This could include ideas for innovation or pathways you’re interested in exploring.
