Prosthetic and orthotic technician
Level 3 · AdvancedHealth and science 1.5 yr typical
About this apprenticeship
What it involves
This Level 3 apprenticeship trains you to design, fabricate, and fit prosthetic and orthotic devices under the supervision of registered clinicians, using a range of materials and manufacturing techniques. You will work in clinical workshops producing devices that improve the mobility and function of patients with limb differences, injuries, or neurological conditions. It can lead to senior technician, CAD/CAM specialist, or progression to the Level 6 Prosthetist and Orthotist apprenticeship.
On the job
What you’ll learn
Materials science for prosthetics and orthotics including plastics, carbon fibre, and metals
Manufacturing and fabrication techniques for prosthetic and orthotic devices
CAD/CAM systems used in prosthetic and orthotic device production
Anatomy, physiology, and biomechanics relevant to prosthetic and orthotic applications
Quality control and clinical standards for device manufacture
Health and safety in clinical workshops including infection control
Device fitting procedures and supporting clinical assessments as a technician
On the job
What you’ll do day to day
Fabricate custom prosthetic and orthotic devices to clinical prescriptions
Use CAD/CAM technology to design and manufacture devices digitally
Attend clinical appointments to fit and adjust devices for patients
Carry out quality checks on completed devices before clinical use
Maintain a clean, safe, and organised clinical workshop environment
Source and manage materials and components for device production
Complete accurate manufacturing records and device documentation for patient files
The deal
How this apprenticeship works
You earn a wage from day one. You are a paid employee, not a student. There are no tuition fees - the training is funded by your employer and the government.
About 20% is “off-the-job” training. Roughly a day a week is spent learning away from your normal duties - at a college, training provider, or online - working towards a recognised qualification.
It ends with an end-point assessment (EPA). Near the end, an independent assessor checks you can do the job to the national standard - through tests, a project, a portfolio or an interview. Pass it and you are fully qualified.
How to get there
What you need to start
Level 3 (Advanced) - roughly A-level level. Employers usually look for some GCSEs (often English & maths around grade 4/C) or a Level 2 apprenticeship first. English & maths can sometimes be finished during training.
What’s next: Can lead to a Level 4/5 (Higher) apprenticeship, or straight into the role.
Entry requirements are set by each employer and can vary - always check the specific vacancy.
Hear from employers
What it’s really like
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