The one day a week over 3yrs will allow for a consist planning day for employers and a more rapid transition to the qualification to benefit both the student and the employer.

Access to award winning simulation department. The majority of lecturers are still practicing clinicians. Includes interdisciplinary teaching with other students from physiotherapy, nursing etc.

The University of Hertfordshire’s SLT Degree Apprenticeship offers a unique, future-focused approach to developing a homegrown workforce. We value and build on each apprentice’s existing experience, recognising their contributions as active participants in the learning process.

Key features include:

• Tailored Placements: Sourced by the University and matched to individual needs, our placements allow apprentices to experience the full breadth of the SLT profession, including opportunities for reciprocal and cross-sector learning.

• Innovative Learning Tools: Integrated simulation and virtual reality enhance clinical learning, helping apprentices develop confidence and competence in a safe, controlled environment.

• Spiral Curriculum: Knowledge and skills are revisited and developed over time, supporting deep learning and long-term retention.

• Interprofessional Education: Based within the School of Health and Social Work, our programme fosters collaboration across Allied Health Professionals, internal and external specialists, and includes Expert by Experience (EBE) engagement.

• Work-Based Quality Improvement Project: Apprentices lead projects in their own settings, contributing directly to service enhancement.

• Career-Ready Assessment: A varied assessment landscape prioritises practical clinical skills and real-world application.

• Supportive Learning Environment: Access to comprehensive support services, including wellbeing teams, academic skills support (SASS), library and resource centres (LRC), and structured tripartite relationships.

• Workplace Mentor Training: Tailored training and ongoing support for work-based mentors ensures clear understanding of roles and responsibilities.

• Commitment to Workforce Development: One of only four programmes of its kind, currently, in the UK, this course supports the development of current staff using well-established trust-based processes, promoting professional autonomy and collaborative healthcare practice.

• Expert Teaching Team: Our academic staff bring a wide range of clinical backgrounds, offering apprentices a rich and diverse learning experience.

• Lifespan Approach: SLT-specific teaching covers communication and swallowing needs from birth to end of life, across diverse clinical settings including schools, acute care, and community services.

• Enquiry-Based Learning: Case-based scenarios involving individuals, families, carers, and communities are used to drive discussion, critical thinking, and self-directed study.

• Experiential Learning: Activities are designed to build empathy and encourage perspective-taking, deepening understanding of service user experiences.

• Eating, Drinking & Swallowing Competencies: Apprentices receive structured support in developing these vital clinical skills.

• Integrated End-Point Assessment (EPA): The EPA is embedded throughout the programme to support continuous preparation, ensuring apprentices are ready for professional registration.

• Leadership & Service Improvement: In the final year, apprentices undertake a leadership shadowing experience and implement a work-based quality improvement project within their employing organisation.

• Ofsted Recognition: In June 2024, Ofsted rated UH as Good, commending the “expertly given” academic and pastoral support delivered in partnership with employers, support that is highly valued by apprentices.

• Practice-Ready Graduates: The curriculum is designed to develop autonomy, risk assessment skills, and adaptability, key qualities for effective, responsive practice in evolving health and social care environments.