Data Futures: Introducing Data Careers in the NHS Apprenticeship opportunities
The NHS, one of the UK’s largest employers of data and analytics professionals, relies on experts who shape the future of healthcare. Beyond frontline roles like doctors and nurses, data professionals play a crucial role, using insights to improve care delivery, efficiency, and patient outcomes for millions.
Launching in April 2025, the NHS Data and Analytics Academy will be signposting their breadth of data apprenticeship schemes available across the UK ensuring accessible entry points for school and college leavers from all backgrounds. These careers are not just about technical skills – they combine problem-solving, creativity, and leadership, giving you the chance to innovate and contribute to meaningful change in healthcare.
Follow our 4 step guide below to find out more about impactful careers in one of the most data-driven sectors in the world.
Step:1 Watch the Video
Step 2: Meet the Apprentices
Asta Breiteryte
Achieved Level 3 Data Citizenship certification in 2023 and currently pursuing a Level 4 Data Analyst apprenticeship.
Holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Finance, awarded in 2009.
I’ve always been fascinated by people who had a strong command of Excel. Watching them effortlessly create formulas, build tables, and design graphs to solve problems felt like witnessing ‘data doctors’ at work – helping their colleagues uncover insights from rows of information.
Syeda Nazifa Khatun
Qualified Learning & Development Practitioner/Regional Trainer.
(Distinction Grade – December 2024).
When the role was advertised, I was drawn to the opportunity to pursue an apprenticeship to continue with my studies as well as gaining hands on experience in a nationally recognised organisation that would boost my career. This ultimately provided me with valuable skills and knowledge that I can now confidently apply in future roles and careers that I pursue to adapt in any professional working environment.
Rohan Tuli
System & App Developer Apprentice
(Finalising Apprenticeship)
“Beyond the technical skills, this apprenticeship has helped me grow as a professional”
Completing this apprenticeship has been a transformative experience for me, both professionally and personally. I’ve always been driven by the desire to create something impactful, and this program offered me the perfect opportunity to combine that passion with a meaningful purpose by developing software solutions that help patients across the UK.
Mary Amanuel
Data Scientist, NHS
Degree Apprenticeship
“The opportunity was transformative… allowing me to be challenged and supported in equal measure”
When I was exploring my options after sixth form, I had the opportunity to gain work experience in various sectors: aviation, engineering, banking, and media. These experiences taught me a crucial lesson: technical skills would be extremely valuable for my future, regardless of the industry I chose to pursue. While most of my peers decided to go to university, I chose to learn on the job with an apprenticeship instead.
Step: 3 – Learn more about Apprenticeships in the NHS
FAQs
Data apprenticeships in the NHS involve training students to work with data to improve healthcare services, patient outcomes, and organisational efficiency. Apprentices learn skills in data analysis, data science, and information management while gaining hands-on experience in real NHS settings.
Data apprenticeships can lead to careers such as:
- Data Analyst
- Data Scientist
- Information Analyst
- Business Intelligence Developer
- Data Engineer
- Health Informatics Specialist
NHS data apprenticeships are ideal for students with an interest in technology, problem-solving, and data-driven decision-making. They are open to school leavers, college graduates, and career-changers who want to combine technical skills with healthcare.
The NHS offers data apprenticeships at various levels:
- Level 3 (Advanced): Data Technician – focuses on foundational data management skills.
- Level 4 (Higher): Data Analyst – introduces advanced data analysis and visualization techniques.
- Level 6 (Degree): Data Scientist – includes programming, machine learning, and data modelling, equivalent to a bachelor’s degree.
- Level 7 (Postgraduate): Specialist roles like Digital and Technology Solutions or Health Data Science.
Entry requirements vary by level:
- Level 3 and Level 4: Typically require GCSEs (including Math and English) and may prefer A-levels in subjects like Math, IT, or Science.
- Level 6 and 7: Usually require A-levels or equivalent qualifications, particularly in analytical or technical subjects. Some roles may require prior experience in IT or data-related work.
Apprentices gain skills in:
- Data collection, management, and analysis.
- Programming languages such as Python, R, and SQL.
- Data visualisation using tools like Power BI or Tableau.
- Statistical modelling and machine learning.
- Problem-solving and interpreting healthcare data to support decision-making.
Data apprenticeships offer:
- Paid employment while earning a recognised qualification.
- Real-world experience in using data to improve healthcare outcomes.
- Exposure to cutting-edge tools, technologies, and techniques.
- Opportunities for progression into senior roles or further study.
Data apprenticeships provide structured career pathways. After completing an apprenticeship, individuals can progress to advanced roles in analytics or pursue further qualifications, such as a master’s degree. Many apprentices secure permanent roles within the NHS or specialise in fields like artificial intelligence or health informatics.
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- Understand the importance of subjects like Maths, IT, and Computer Science.
- Explore online courses in data analytics or coding (e.g., Python or SQL).
- Develop your problem-solving, communication, and analytical skills.
- Refine your CV writing and interview preparation.
- Complete Digdata NHS career challenges to gain virtual work experience.
Apprentices earn while they learn. Salaries vary by role and level, but all apprentices are paid at least the national apprenticeship wage, with higher-level apprenticeships often offering competitive salaries that reflect their responsibilities.
Yes. NHS trusts across England offer data apprenticeships. Opportunities can be found on the NHS Jobs Website or the Health Careers Website.
Yes. Entry-level apprenticeships (e.g., Level 3 Data Technician) are designed to teach the fundamental skills needed for data roles. Students need a strong willingness to learn, problem-solving ability, and basic numeracy and digital skills.
Regularly check the NHS Jobs Website, subscribe to the Health Careers newsletter, or connect with local NHS apprenticeship leads for updates on upcoming opportunities.
Step: 4 Explore Data and Analytics Careers in the NHS
- School leavers or those looking for a career change can apply for a data apprenticeship with the NHS. We cross post all the data and data related apprenticeships on NHS Data and Analytics Academy BUT you can find all apprenticeship opportunities under NHS Jobs.
- You can refine down by geography and you can even set up a job alert to be sent any new postings direct to your email. The NHS offers apprenticeships in all areas from business support, finance, procurement, pharmacy, estates management.
- If you are based in the North-West you can also register your interest for 2026 SDN Apprenticeships Scheme.
- Watch the LinkedIn Live Launch of the NHS Data and Analytics Academy.