The Orthoptics apprenticeship funding offer for 2026-27 is now live.

NHS England is pleased to announce a training support fund, available nationally to employers, to help grow the Orthoptic workforce, for the following apprenticeship programme in 2026/27:

• Level 6 Orthoptist Degree Apprenticeship – £8,300 (per apprentice, per year for the duration of the apprenticeship)

To apply for this funding, please complete the request for funding form here: Expression of Interest: Funding for National Orthoptic Apprenticeships (2026-2027)

Full guidance on the funding is available here.

Please note that neither employers nor NHS England are making a commitment at this stage. Employers should wait for confirmation from NHS England about which training posts will receive funding before enrolling candidates on the programmes.

Please read the attached funding guidance in full before completing the funding request form.

This Expression of Interest will open on the 27 April and close at Midnight on May 29, 2026.

Please note: Enrolment onto the apprenticeship programme closes on May 29, 2026. Please contact ahpnm-apprenticeships@sheffield.ac.uk to ensure that your apprentice/s are enrolled onto the course.