Respiratory Level 2
The Level 2 Healthcare Science Assistant apprenticeship is an ideal way for learners to gain a recognised qualification whilst working within a relevant healthcare science related industry.
The Respiratory pathway is specifically designed to support learners who are new to healthcare, or perhaps have not been in education for some time. Learners may be based within a hospital respiratory department or working in a more community-based diagnostic role such as within a Community Diagnostic Centre (CDC).
The student’s role will be patient facing and include performing spirometry, reversibility, pulse oximetry plus conduct basic interpretation of the results.
What You'll Learn
The apprenticeship scheme has taught elements that are split between core units where you will join other level 2 Apprenticeship learners from a variety of pathways, this often generates lively debate within class as many share best practice amongst the remote online classroom. In total there are six core units that cover the fundamental topics you would naturally expect on an apprenticeship course based within healthcare science, some of the topics covered include:
- Health and Safety
- Principles of Patient Care
- Quality, Audit and Innovation
The specialist pathway of the Respiratory pathway will give learners a broader understanding of respiratory methodologies, covering the basic theory and execution of spirometry, reversibility and pulse oximetry. Learner will also gain an understanding of the underlying anatomy, physiology and pathology of the respiratory system and associated disease.
Where This Pathway Can Take You
The Level 2 programme is an entry-level of qualification designed to build your confidence in the skills for your role and provide a foundation in academic learning. Learners may be eligible to apply for higher-level roles within their current career path, or use their nationally recognised qualification to explore other avenues within healthcare. Learners may also wish to progress on to one our level 4 Healthcare Science apprenticeships.
Why This Pathway Matters
Respiratory disease is one of the leading causes of illness and hospital admission in the UK. Millions of people are living with long‑term respiratory conditions such as asthma, COPD, interstitial lung disease and the long‑term effects of respiratory infections. These conditions place significant pressure on patients, families, and the healthcare system.
The importance of respiratory services in healthcare has never been clearer. Respiratory support workers and assistant practitioners play a vital role in identifying breathing disorders, supporting diagnostic testing, maintaining clinical equipment, and ensuring safe, effective patient care. Working alongside respiratory physiologists and clinicians, they help ensure early detection, accurate testing, and timely intervention.
A Level 2 Respiratory Apprenticeship provides a crucial entry point into this workforce. It equips learners with the foundational skills, knowledge, and behaviours needed to support respiratory diagnostics, infection control, equipment maintenance, and patient preparation. By developing a skilled and competent workforce at this level, the apprenticeship pathway supports early diagnosis, improves patient outcomes, and helps reduce avoidable hospital admissions and long‑term healthcare costs.
Investing in respiratory apprenticeships is an investment in prevention, workforce sustainability, and improved quality of care for a growing patient population.
Study And Workplace Balance
We operate a remote teaching format where core lessons are delivered once a month, followed by a 4-week period to complete the relevant assignments.
Learners will build an ongoing portfolio of evidence throughout the duration of the course and are expected to showcase their practical competencies via remote assessment.
Witness testimonies from peers will ascertain how the learner meets the behaviours expected of an apprentice and continued professional development from within the department logged as off the job training.
Although your employer may offer time to complete assignments during your working week, you should expect to spend some of your own time completing your work.
A Day In This Pathway Might Include:
- Prepare patients for tests, explain procedures, and provide caring and encouraging guidance and support.
- Performing spirometry and reversibility testing.
- Calibrate and prepare diagnostic equipment.
What Makes This Pathway Special?
Our delivery team are all experts in healthcare science with decades of experience working in the NHS. Our respiratory expert, Jenny, has extensive hands-on experience in the diagnostic methods you will be exploring as part of this programme. The team also prides itself on our engaging and inclusive approach to teaching, we work hard to make your course interesting, exciting and relevant to your role.
Join A Lunch & Connect Session
We host monthly lunchtime sessions for employers, managers and prospective apprentices who would like to learn more about the Level 2 Healthcare Science Assistant Apprenticeship.
During the session we cover:
- An overview of the programme
- All pathway options
- How delivery works in practice
- Opportunities for questions and discussion
Time: 12:00pm to 12:45pm
Format: Microsoft Teams
Style: Informal and supportive
Materials: Provided if you are unable to attend