HNC Healthcare Practice Course Information for NHS Lothian Healthcare Support Workers
Application now open for the Part-time HNC in Healthcare Practice
- Key dates are as follows:
- Monday 21st July 2025 – application packs available.
- Friday 26th September 2025– closing date for applications to be returned.
Course Overview
The HNC Healthcare Practice course is designed for Healthcare Support Workers currently employed within NHS Lothian. Delivered by Edinburgh College, candidates have the option to attend on a part-time or full-time basis. Successful applicants will remain in employment during the HNC course and, upon completion, are anticipated to transition to the second year of the Bachelor of Nursing programme at Edinburgh Napier University, facilitated by agreed access arrangements.
This course has been endorsed by National Health Service Education for Scotland (NES) and the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and aligns closely with the first year of nurse education.
Student Status
HNC students will wear a HNC uniform.
Students remain employed by NHS Lothian and receive their full salary.
All existing entitlements (e.g., annual leave) remain unchanged.
Each student will be supported by a Practice Assessor and a Practice Supervisor.
Students will achieve clinical proficiencies identical to those expected of first-year nursing students.
Clinical area serves as the first-year placement area.
Funding
Full-time course fees are covered by the Student Awards Agency for Scotland.
Part-time course fees are covered by the Scottish Government.
The Scottish Government covers part-replacement costs to your workplace.
Upon successful completion of the HNC, students will enter Year 2 of the Pre-registration Nursing Programme at Edinburgh Napier University to become registered nurses.
Application Process
Discussion: Discuss interest with your Charge Nurse or Line Manager.
Application Form: Complete and return the Application Form to the HNC Team.
Manager’s Statement of Support: Your Charge Nurse (or equivalent) must complete and submit this, signed by the Clinical Nurse Manager (or equivalent). Applications without this document will not be accepted.
Eligibility Criteria
Employment Requirement: Must have been employed as a Clinical Support Worker/Healthcare Assistant with NHS Lothian for at least 6 months before the closing date.
Educational Qualifications: Must have a minimum of SCQF Level 6 qualification (e.g., SVQ Level 2, National Progression Award-Skills for Practice, Modern Apprentice). Other relevant qualifications will be considered individually.
Support Requirements: Must have the support of their Charge Nurse and Clinical Nurse Manager (or equivalents). This must be agreed upon before application submission.
English Language Proficiency: For non-native English speakers, a minimum IELTS score of 5.5 (or equivalent) is required. Evidence must be submitted with the application form.
Employment Hours:
Full-time HNC (1 year duration): Must be contracted to work a minimum of 35 hours per week at the start of the course.
Part-time HNC (2 years duration): Must be contracted to work a minimum of 19 hours per week at the start of the course.
Residency Requirement: Must have lived in the UK for 3 years or more and have a valid visa if required to be eligible for Government funding.
To request an application pack or any questions or further information, please contact the HNC Team at HNC.Team@nhs.scot.
