Sample taker training – national requirements:
The national guidance for sample taker training was updated in February 2020. Registered Nurses, Nursing Associates, Midwives and Physician Associates must complete a recognised theoretical course followed by a period of supervised training as described in this guidance and is available here
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cervical-screening-cervical-sample-taker-training
Initial Training:
The training period for trainee sample takers is approximately 9 months from enrolment through to completion.
Any training provider can be used as long as training meets the criteria within the national guidance and is accredited. The links below are the training providers used across Surrey to date.
Training Course Calendar – NEPSEC – North of England Pathology and Screening Education Centre
http://www.clinicaltrainingltd.co.uk/training-courses/
Kingston and St Georges– University of London: Kingston University and St.George's University of London - Faculty of Health, Social Care and Education - Greater Together (healthcare.ac.uk)
We are aware that current availability of training places is challenging due to COVID-19. Some theoretical teaching is being offered virtually. Surrey Training Hub are working with all training providers to offer dates across Surrey, please see Eventbrite here for upcoming courses.
Sample taker numbers
It is now possible for practice managers to register someone working at their practice on the sample taker database and allocate a sample taker number cervicalsampletaker.scwcsu@nhs.net. In doing so the individual health professional is confirming that they have taken or are undertaking training which meets the criteria within the national guidance.
Cervical screening mentor
The cervical screening mentor supports the trainee through their practical sample taker training and confirms their achievement for progression to the final evaluation and clinical assessment.
Mentors must be practising sample takers with at least 12 months continuous experience, having taken at least 50 cervical samples following completion of their own initial training. Mentors must have effective communication skills and ideally hold a relevant mentoring and, or teaching qualification. Further information about the role of the mentor is detailed in the national sample taker training guidance.
Cervical screening assessor
The assessor is external to the trainee’s place of work. The assessor is responsible for conducting the trainee’s final clinical assessment. The training provider is responsible for recruiting and inducting individuals to the role of assessor making sure they understand the role, are sufficiently prepared to carry it out and are consistent in their practice. Further information about the role of the assessor is detailed in the national sample taker training guidance.
There will be opportunity for experienced practitioners to undertake this course fully funded due to the challenges due to COVID-19. Please contact the Training Hub is you are interested in this opportunity.
Required update training for cervical sample takers
Sample takers must undertake a minimum of 3 hours update training every 3 years. The national eLearning resource for sample takers meets the programme requirements for update training.
This is a free resource suitable for update training only. Sample takers will need to register, via the web-site, for an e-LFH account at the link below:
https://www.e-lfh.org.uk/programmes/nhs-screening-programmes/
https://www.surreyi.gov.uk/jsna/screening-and-immunisations/
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/cervical-screening-cervical-sample-taker-training/training-for-cervical-sample-takers-education-pathway