NHS Lothian - Trainee Perioperative Practitioner (ODP) – BSc Hons (Graduate Apprenticeship) in Operating Department Practice.
Contract Duration: Permanent
Hours: Full time (36.0 hours/week)
Salary Scale: £34,544 – £43,039 (Annex 21*)
Location: Pan- Lothian (various sites)
The role offers a three‑year Graduate Apprenticeship to become a qualified Operating Department Practitioner (ODP). The programme blends 20% online theory with 80% clinical work‑based learning. You will gain progressive experience across a variety of perioperative settings within NHS Lothian and receive support from clinical mentors. Successful completion provides eligibility to apply for Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) registration.
Key responsibilities during the apprenticeship include:
* Assisting in the anaesthetic phase, surgical phase, and post‑anaesthetic phase of perioperative care.
* Providing high‑standard, person‑focused perioperative care as part of a multidisciplinary team.
* Engaging in independent study and continuous professional development.
* Utilising digital technology, information systems and e‑mail effectively for clinical and administrative tasks.
* Prioritising work to meet deadlines and support efficient operation of the perioperative suite.
Entry criteria:
* Passes in the Scottish National Qualifications in five subjects including three at higher level, or passes in GCSE/GCE in four subjects including one at A Level.
* Applicants who do not meet these standards may be considered if they have at least one year’s relevant work experience and meet DipHE entry criteria (passes in Scottish National Qualifications in five subjects including two at higher level or equivalent SVQ, HNC, HND) and provide evidence of key skills in a detailed CV and supporting personal statement.
English language requirements: All candidates must meet HCPC standards for English, equivalent to IELTS Level 7 (no component below 6.5).
Academic programme fees: Fees are funded by the Scottish Funding Council for those meeting SAAS Scottish requirements and normally resident in Scotland. Trainees not eligible for SAAS funding must self‑fund; information can be obtained from the University of the West of Scotland.
Commencement: Applicants must be ready to begin employment no later than the week commencing Monday 07 September 2026.
Interview details: Video interviews will take place on Monday 22nd and Tuesday 23rd June. No alternative dates are available.
Pay information: Trainees are paid a percentage of the Band 5 pay band maximum, adjusted as follows:
* Up to 12 months prior to completion: 75% of the fully qualified rate.
* More than one but less than two years prior: 70% of the qualified rate.
* More than two but less than three years prior: 65% of the qualified rate.
Contact information for further discussion:
* Paul Butler – Paul.Butler@nhs.scot
* Cath Green – Catherine.Green@nhs.scot
Note: The vacancy may close early due to high interest; please complete and submit your application promptly.
AI usage: While AI tools can assist in checking spelling and grammar, original answers must be your own. Applications reliant on AI‑generated content may be withdrawn.
Staff views and further information are available on the NHS Lothian and Scottish Education websites.
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