Colleague training and education
One of the key components making EEAST a great place to work, volunteer and learn is our ability to provide a breadth of career pathways and development opportunities for all our people.
Throughout 2022 we expanded the number of career pathways available to new and existing colleagues at EEAST. Career pathways were designed to both attract and retain skilled colleagues and provide detailed career progression options, underpinned by academic study funded by the apprenticeship levy.
We introduced an innovative pathway - the allied health professional (AHP) pathway - which provided a transitional education course for existing AHPs to become paramedics. Two cohorts (34 candidates) successfully progressed through this induction pathway since it was introduced, with a further 12 candidates due to start in spring.
Investment in clinical professional development strengthened during 2022, with over 358 courses being offered to clinical staff, up 45% since last year. This amounted to over 5,600 EEAST colleagues attending face to face training in the year, leading to improved skills, knowledge and ultimately better patient experience.
We took great steps forward to increase the amount of protected time available for clinical colleagues to undertake training, by providing 24 hours per year per allied health professional to undertake continued professional development (CPD).
EEAST continued to invest in colleagues undertaking degree apprenticeships relevant to their role.
During 2022, we expanded the number of colleagues undertaking a degree apprenticeship by opening up options to non-clinical colleagues, alongside the existing offering for those clinically trained.
This was supported by EEAST attracting a further £1.41 million in apprenticeship levy funding.
Degree apprenticeships, alongside other professional courses and qualifications, continued to be offered to all EEAST colleagues, supported by a detailed organisation wide training plan.