Exploring assistant practitioners? views of their role and training

Aim: To examine the views of assistant practitioners and trainee assistant practitioners regarding experiences of practice in relation to the autonomy of the role and level of supervision, the training involved and support experienced in undertaking the foundation degree, and the effects of the assistant practitioner role in the workplace. Method: A service evaluation was undertaken in which a small cross-sectional quantitative survey was distributed to trainee assistant practitioners undertaking the foundation degree, and assistant practitioners who had previously completed the foundation degree or who had qualified via another route. Results: A total of 93 questionnaires were returned. The data indicate that there is some uncertainty surrounding the skills and competence of those undertaking the foundation degree, and a lack of opportunity for career progression for unregistered staff. Conclusion: Increased understanding of the scope and role of assistant practitioners and the academic requirements of the foundation degree is required to increase assistant practitioner numbers.