A new midwifery apprenticeship course has been offered to NHS trusts and colleges by the University of Winchester.

The course gives a fresh opportunity in the healthcare sector as it allows individuals to explore a practical career route in the industry.

The university recently launched a series of taster days which were attended by roughly 50 maternity support workers from six NHS Trusts, including Hampshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and Isle of Wight NHS Trust and Oxford University Hospital.

In attendance were also students from Andover College and Queen Mary’s Basingstoke undertaking health-related level three courses.

Earlier this year, the university welcomed its inaugural batch of students into its Midwifery BSc course and Midwifery Degree Apprenticeship.

These taster days introduced midwifery support workers and students to the apprenticeship programme and provided the opportunity for them to mingle with current apprentices.

The potential apprentices already working within the NHS were given a tour of the University's campus and offered an interactive experience within the clinical suite.

Ally Young, the health curriculum lead at Andover College, took six of her students to the taster day. She said: "The Taster Day provided a better insight into the Midwifery apprenticeship pathway, and made it real, with practical activities.

"The current Midwifery Apprentices offered inspiration to the T-Level students."

Attendees of the taster day praised the experience, citing the informative sessions, interactive experiences and helpful guidance as the event's highlights.

Dr Kate Nash, lead midwife for education at the university, added: "The feedback has been really positive.

"Both the employer and taster days have helped to strengthen employer partnership working and inspire and support future aspiring apprentices who wish to embark upon the midwifery degree apprenticeship programme."

For more information on the course, individuals can visit the University's website, which includes testimonials from current trainees and further details on the course structure.