Hugh Baird College at the Forefront of Building an NHS Fit for the Future
As the UK government pushes forward its mission to build an NHS fit for the future, Hugh Baird College is leading the way in training and developing the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Recognised for its outstanding commitment to workforce development, the College is delivering high-quality apprenticeship programmes in partnership with the NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group, ensuring healthcare staff are equipped with the skills needed to meet the evolving demands of the sector.
The College's recent 'Outstanding' Ofsted rating highlights its significant impact on the region. Inspectors commended its role in addressing workforce shortages, stating that "The College makes a strong contribution to meeting skills needs." The report also praised its apprenticeship provision: "Apprentices develop the resilience and skills needed to thrive in specialist roles, particularly in areas with significant skills shortages." These findings reinforce the College's vital role in preparing healthcare professionals for demanding frontline roles.
Hugh Baird College has played a pivotal role in recruiting and training NHS staff across various healthcare disciplines through its work with the Trust. Apprentices trained at the College have progressed into key roles within hospitals, care settings, and community health services, such as Healthcare Workers, Laboratory Technicians, Business Administration and Human Resources, helping to meet the increasing demand for skilled workers.
Understanding the challenges of balancing work and study, Hugh Baird College has developed a range of flexible training models tailored to the needs of NHS apprentices. These include blended learning, workplace-based training, and structured day-release programmes, allowing apprentices to gain essential qualifications while continuing to work. The College's state-of-the-art simulated hospital ward, complete with programmable crash dummies, provides apprentices with a realistic clinical training environment, helping them to develop the practical skills required to excel in healthcare settings.
The College's pre-apprenticeship programmes have opened doors for people from underrepresented backgrounds, helping them gain the qualifications and confidence to enter healthcare careers. In collaboration with NHS partners, recent recruitment campaigns have also played a key role in filling vacancies across the sector, ensuring that hospitals and care providers have the staff they need to continue delivering high-quality patient care.
Recognising the importance of communication in healthcare, Hugh Baird College has integrated British Sign Language (BSL) training into its healthcare apprenticeships and delivers the course as a standalone qualification to NHS Trust staff, improving patient interactions and accessibility. This initiative has been widely praised, with staff members using their new skills to support patients in various clinical settings, including dementia care.
Rachael Hennigan, Principal and Chief Executive of Hugh Baird College, said:
Through our strong NHS partnerships, tailored apprenticeship programmes, and innovative training models, we are not just educating healthcare professionals – we are shaping the future of the NHS workforce. Our 'Outstanding' Ofsted rating confirms that the quality of education and training we provide makes a real difference, and we remain committed to ensuring that healthcare staff are given the skills, knowledge, and support they need to thrive.
Annette Pollitt, Apprenticeship and Widening Participation Lead at NHS University Hospitals of Liverpool Group, added:
Our partnership with Hugh Baird College has been invaluable in supporting our workforce development. The apprenticeship programmes have allowed our staff to enhance their skills, progress in their careers, and deliver the highest standard of care to our patients. By growing our own talent, we’re not only strengthening our workforce but also creating a more resilient one that can meet the evolving needs of the NHS.
The College's flexible and innovative approach to training ensures that our apprentices are well-prepared for their development, and we look forward to continuing our collaboration in building a strong and skilled workforce.
For more information on Hugh Baird College's NHS partnerships and healthcare programmes, visit www.hughbaird.ac.uk.
