A new online learning platform aims to tackle a shortage of workplace educators in the NHS.

The University of Winchester co-developed the interactive resource, which is aimed at members of the 14 Allied Health Professions (AHPs) - including physiotherapists, radiographers, and paramedics - who wish to become qualified practice educators able to supervise students on work placements.

According to the NHS Long Term Workforce Plan, 25 per cent more training places for AHPs will be needed by 2030/31, bringing the total to 18,800.

This increase will, in turn, require more AHP workplace educators to supervise trainees.

A 2023 report by the Council of Deans of Health stated: "The demand for and expectations of the AHP workforce has never been higher. Securing the future and current professional workforce is dependent upon a sustainable and high-quality education workforce both in practice and in academic settings."

NHS England South East commissioned the universities of Winchester, Southampton, and Canterbury Christ Church to develop a single point of entry learning platform to support AHP educators.

The new platform, which aims to support implementation of the existing AHP Educator Career Framework, will be launched at an online event on October 8 from 1pm.

The interactive learning resource was created using input from a stakeholders’ meeting held at Winchester in March, which was attended by 88 AHPs from a range of professions and career levels.

Participants requested resources for all career levels, including support workers and learners, educators, strategic leaders, and senior managers.

The new resource has ‘personas’ developed for learners at different career stages alongside vignettes from a range of professionals so that AHPs can access relevant information.

The project was led by Tai Frater, Senior Lecturer in Practice Education at Winchester’s Faculty of Health and Wellbeing, Jo Kileff from the University of Southampton, and Professor John Hammond of Christ Church Canterbury.

Ms Frater said: "We are delighted to have the opportunity to work with Canterbury Christ Church and Southampton University to develop this exciting new platform for AHP educators across the South East and beyond.

"We hope this new platform will prove an essential tool for all AHPs seeking to develop their capabilities as effective educators able to support a diverse range of AHP learners."

Anyone interested in attending the online launch should email tai.frater@winchester.ac.uk for more information about the link to the meeting.