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Student Nursing Associate (SNA)

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Role Description

A Student Nursing Associate (SNA) is a Nursing Associate in training.

The SNA, once qualified, will help bridge the gap between Healthcare Assistants and Registered Nurses within the nursing team.

The SNA works under the supervision of a Registered Nurse.

What can a Student Nursing Associate offer to patients in a Primary Care setting once qualified?

A few of the skills that the Student Nursing Associate will be able to safely demonstrate on qualification are:

  • Venepuncture
  • Height, weight & BMI checks
  • Lifestyle advice
  • Blood pressure checks
  • ECGs
  • Wound care
  • Measure & interpret blood glucose levels
  • Long Term Condition Reviews
  • Cervical screening (On completion of training post registration)
  • Selected immunisations (on completion of immunisation training)

Registrable Qualification

  • Upon qualification the SNA will have a Nursing Associate Foundation Degree.

Additional Qualifications Required for Primary Care

Prior to undertaking the SNA qualification, individuals will be required to have the following:

  • GCSEs grade 9 to 4 (A to C) in maths and English or
  • Functional Skills Level 2 in maths and English
  • Ability to study to level 5 foundation degree level

Regulatory Body

Nursing & Midwifery Health Council (NMC) - registration recorded with the NMC and receive a PIN

Supervision Requirements

  • Day to day and regular supervision by an NMC registered nurse, midwife, or other registered healthcare professional. 
  • An NMC registered Practice Assessor will be required. The practice assessor must be qualified as a Nursing Associate or above, the assessor is not required to work at the same GP practice as the SNA.

Setting up and managing a Digital Apprenticeship account

Using the apprenticeship service as a training provider - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)

Registering a Digital Apprenticeship Service (DAS) Account - About Apprenticeships


What can the Training Hub offer you?

  • Support and guidance on application process for the prospective SNA and employer
  • Access to peer support
  • SNA apprenticeship (support throughout training)
  • Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship (RNDA) - guidance post NA qualification
  • Access to online courses and workshops on various topics related to nursing.
  • Tools and resources for improving communication and professional skills.
  • Best practices and guidelines for NAs.
  • Networking opportunities with other (SNAs) NAs and healthcare professionals.
  • Continued education and professional development opportunities.

Useful Resources

What is a Nursing Associate - NHS Employers

NMC Standards for Nursing Associates

NHS Health Careers

HEE Nursing Associate Training and Development

HEE Nursing Associate FAQ for Employers

Expression Of Interest Form (specific to the Surrey Training Hub)

Application Form for Levy Transfer

SNA Information Pack

Video about application process through the Open University

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