Operating Department Practice

This apprenticeship supports the development of apprentices working in the healthcare sector, in the role of Operating Department Practitioner (ODP).

ODPs provide individualised care and skilled support alongside medical and nursing colleagues during the anaesthetic, surgical and recovery phases of perioperative care.

We've worked with universities and industry employers to create this degree-level qualification. Your employees will gain the skills and knowledge an Operating Department Practitioner needs – and earn a degree.

You can recruit new employees, upskill or reskill existing employees.

Entry requirements for Graduate Apprenticeships vary by course and institution.

Each vacancy advert says what qualifications are needed to start each Graduate Apprenticeship. The candidate can also contact the university directly for guidance on entry requirements.

Successful apprentices may progress to roles within:

• advanced clinical practice

• education

• research

• management

• clinical governance

• health informatics

For anyone interested in further professional learning and development, options could include:

• MProf in Professional Practice

• MSc Health Studies

• Master of Public Health

• Doctor of Professional Studies (DProf)

• Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Occupation profile

Please read the Occupation Profile for Operating Department Practice. This gives a detailed description of the work situations routinely carried out in this role.