To ask the Minister of Health to detail any plans he has to introduce degree level or assistant practitioner level apprenticeships for health service positions, similarly to other parts of the UK.

My Department is committed to exploring all possibilities that may provide a training pathway to careers in the Health and Social Care system, including public sector apprenticeships.

This has included engagement with the Department for the Economy, which is considering how best the development of public sector apprenticeships in Northern Ireland can be supported. Further discussions are planned.

Any new training pathways identified for progression within the HSC will be developed in collaboration with all relevant stakeholders.