Hi everyone, I am looking to train as an APT through self funding and work experience. Does anybody have experience with this? Is it a common thing to do or something that’s unlikely to be achievable?
I’m a mature student with a family so I cannot relocate for a trainee position so looking to get qualified independently.
Any advice would be greatly appreciated. I haven’t contacted any local mortuaries as yet as I didn’t want to waste their time if this wasn’t a practical option.
Best wishes,
Helen
I think some mortuaries do apprenticeships. Double check with Jessica she will know. You could always try getting a foot in the door of a pathology lab as an MLA and get to know the mortuary staff. Thats how I got my job.
Hi Helen,
I don’t really think this would be possible, mortuaries wouldnt be likely to train you if you aren’t employed there, due to DBS checks and security etc. Also you would be required to take the practical exam doing post mortems, so you would need to be super experienced in this, which mortuaries probably wouldn’t put their time into if you aren’t a proper employee.
Also, you need to complete a portfolio of mortuary experiences, with practical post mortem experience, cleaning, paperwork, general day-to-day mortuary techniques and also witness statements written by colleagues and service users. I don’t think this would all work with just work experience.
Also, once you’re qualified you still wouldn’t have a job, unlike other trainee positions where you go straight into an APT position after qualifying. I know trainee jobs are few and far between but 100% the best option is to work on your application and apply as soon as you see one at your local hospital :)
Hi Helen,
I am not aware of anyone who has completed the course without employment as you will require a base to do training and a mentor to support you though. I would be surprised if any mortuary would take you on to do it as there is so much red tape these days! Can I ask when you are located? Feel free to email Jessica.arnold3@nhs.net