Job summary The South West Imaging Training Academy (SWITA) is committed to developing and enhancing training opportunities for all professionals involved in imaging. This role will work to improve the recruitment, retention and training for the Sonography workforce by managing and facilitating the Taunton Sonography hub, supporting both trainee Sonographers and Radiologists. The post will involve responsibility of the clinical governance and day to day running of the hub in partnership with the Somerset FT protocols and guidelines, and Local Sonography Leads. Main duties of the job They will lead delivery of clinical education, being responsible for organising and co-ordinating the educational and training requirements necessary for all staff in the Taunton Ultrasound Hub (TUH). It will involve maximising training and education capacity and resources in accordance with clinical governance, developing and maintaining a quality system for this purpose. Provide a high quality, timely service to patients by developing and educating a flexible, multi-skilled, professional workforce. Perform and provide a diagnostic report for a wide range of examinations including, but not limited to General Medical, Gynaecology, DVT and Testicular ultrasound, demonstrating expertise in the use of medical ultrasound techniques and showing a thorough understanding of their application. High level of management and leadership is expected, working within the local SFT and SWITA Leadership teams and both in appropriate forums. They will contribute and lead the development of the ultrasound service within the TUH, in partnership with the Sonography Leadership team at SFT (Musgrove). They will create an Ultrasound Simulation Program using current simulation equipment, in partnership with the Academy Radiology team, Higher Education Institutes and local trust Sonography teams to enhance learning and develop skills of trainees There will be some overlap between roles of educator, mentor, coach and management with the post holder expected to move between these roles efficiently. About us At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer: Flexible working options to help you balance work and life NHS pension scheme for long-term financial security Generous annual leave allowance to recharge and relax A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential Additionally, you'll gain access to our Blue Light Card, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS-specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work. We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds. Why Somerset? Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty, and breathtaking coastlines, with vibrant cities like Bristol, Bath, and Exeter just a short drive away - and only two hours to London. The region is home to excellent educational facilities, and with affordable housing compared to other parts of the country, it's a great place to build both your career and your future. Somerset truly has it all - the peaceful countryside and cosmopolitan city life, with something for everyone to enjoy. Date posted 15 January 2025 Pay scheme Agenda for change Band Band 8a Salary £53,755 to £60,504 a year Contract Fixed term Duration 1 years Working pattern Full-time, Part-time Reference number 184-OL-PU-1559 Job locations Musgrove Park Hospital Musgrove Road Taunton Somerset TA1 5DA Taunton Diagnostic Centre Blackbrook Park Ave Taunton Somerset TA1 2PX Job description Job responsibilities To develop links with internal and external education providers, and other external parties. Supervise and structure practice-based learning, bringing together academic theory, workplace practice and help trainees to develop skills and competencies towards learning outcomes, assessment and qualification. Identify funding opportunities for sonographers, working with the SWITA Radiography Education Lead and SFT. Signpost staff to educational and development opportunities and act as advocate to ensure access to these opportunities Responsible for allocated trainee sonographers, radiologists and student radiographers, - assist with their education and clinical appraisal (assess training needs and set objectives, review of written work, act as appraiser and carry out assessment giving constructive performance feedback and review of achievements using the agreed passport of learning). Liaise with ultrasound leads and designated appraisers to report progress of trainee/ preceptee. Work collaboratively with trainees and educational providers to ensure students can access help and support, including raising concerns related to the trainees' wellbeing and/or mental health, in a pastoral care element to the role. Work with the other regional leads to create a simulation program to enhance and develop skills of trainees within the Taunton hub, using current simulation equipment. Explore new ways of Technology Enhanced Learning and simulation and feedback to the SWITA and SFT Sonography Leadership teams around new and innovate ways of teaching and learning. Review and develop the currently in place preceptorship programme and provide guidance on what is expected of sonographers as they develop in their career Support them as newly qualified sonographers during their preceptorship period Lead the Induction for new substantive staff within the Academy hub. Take a lead role in training colleagues in new or supplementary techniques Work collaboratively to identify, plan and deliver programmes to meet personal and professional development needs of self and others, including acting as an Appraiser for the department. Teach and deliver specialist training in ultrasound, undertake lectures and presentations to groups of ultrasound trainees and practitioners within the specialist modality Contribute to the strategic planning around education and training of the ultrasound workforce for SWITA Familiar with the AHPPracticePlacement Sustainability Framework and self-evaluation tool. Develop and improve quality of training to meet any issues identified by incident reporting. To promote the department by receiving visitors by arranging programmes, Open Days and presentations as appropriate. To perform a comprehensive range of examinations including, but not limited to General Medical, Gynaecology, DVT and Testicular ultrasound. To provide a high-quality service and standards of care, demonstrate expertise in the use of medical ultrasound techniques and to show a thorough understanding of their application for the range of ultrasound examinations, on all sites as allocated. To communicate and interpret complex information using skills and developed specialist knowledge of anatomy and pathology underpinned by theory and practice. Assess the clinical condition of the patient against contra-indications of procedures. To issue reports providing a diagnosis and further management advice on all examinations within the sub-specialty field, adhering to the local trust guidelines and governance. To be fully accountable for ultrasound examinations and exercise a high degree of professional autonomy in the decision-making process that will improve overall patient outcomes. To formulate an appropriate diagnosis and provide a timely, accurate comprehensive and diagnostic report of examinations, and in relevant cases treatment, according to departmental protocols Use judgement skills as to when to discuss unusual or questionable appearances with Consultant Radiologist Communicate complex information regarding patient management based on best available evidence and practice, by ensuring requests are appropriate, investigation is guided by clinical presentation and subsequent findings, results are transmitted in a timely manner and appropriate onward referral is undertaken. Vet request forms, interpret clinicians' requirements and determine/modify technique when appropriate Assess clinical history, interpret images and refer patient for further imaging if required to support ultrasound findings, in accordance with departmental protocols Communicate complex information and liaise with patients, clinicians, other healthcare professionals and representatives as part of a multidisciplinary team, in an effective manner to ensure high standards of patient care and an efficient service Adhere to principles of informed consent Attend appropriate MDT meetings Collaborate with other U/S leads and medical staff to ensure a good throughput of patient examinations is achieved across all sites (daily and weekly) and help make adjustments for unpredictable situations. Collaborate with the SWITA Radiography Education Lead and Co-Clinical Director for Radiography, work to financial controls to ensure any pay and non -pay budget is monitored and not exceeded To contribute to the service business planning round, especially with regard to workforce and training within the Taunton Academy hub. Contribute to the strategic direction of the Taunton Academy hub and the organisation, ensuring an effective and responsive radiology service. Work with the SWITA Radiography Education Lead and SFT Sonography Leads to take responsibility for ultrasound service delivery and clinical governance Assist in clinical evaluation of equipment purchased for the Taunton Academy hub. To ensure images are correctly identified, data entry is correct and reports and other documents are stored, transported and handled securely, in accordance with the Trust's confidentiality policy Be competent in the range of ultrasound imaging equipment and Picture Archive Communication Solution (PACS) enabling quality image acquisition, efficient review and transmission of images and scanning documents Participate in maintaining an ultrasound QA programme to ensure consistency of operator and equipment, report potential malfunctions and liaise with equipment suppliers for maintenance of equipment The post holder will be actively involved in any processes required to gain and maintain QSI CQC standards. Be familiar with and adhere to Trust / Departmental policies and procedures including Infection control, Manual Handling and Fire regulations, Risk Management strategy including Repetitive Strain Injury, Supporting Attendance, Performance Management etc and take action necessary to reduce risk. Work with the SWITA Radiography Education Lead and SFT Sonography Leads with HR processes when required eg investigating complaints and grievances Participate in interview process for recruitment and selection within the Taunton Academy hub. Actively search for evidence of new developments and technological advances, critically appraise evidence and identify opportunities to apply new knowledge to own and others' practice. Engage in research and development to contribute to the evidence base and share best practice, publish and disseminate findings Participate in audit of own practice and wider professional audit/clinical research as required by SWITA, evaluate clinical practice and implement change. Promote a culture of continuous improvement. Maintain professional standards as defined by College of Radiographers policies and Code of Conduct and the Local Trust Values Maintain professional registration at all times where applicable. Take professional responsibility for his/her own actions. Recognise limits of professional competence and be responsible for limiting actions to within an agreed range of competencies and identify areas where further training is required. Maintain a CPD portfolio and participate in the appraisal process. Maintain knowledge of technological and clinical advances to remain conversant with current practice. Maintain an awareness of developments in the NHS and their impact on imaging. Commit to developing self and others. Maintain a good public image both verbally and visually. Maintain and extend good working relationships with all departments and personnel in Somerset FT NHS Trust, GPs etc Expertly operate equipment, manipulate the settings to obtain optimum images requiring manual dexterity and develop hand/eye co-ordination skills to perform interventions. Job description Job responsibilities To develop links with internal and external education providers, and other external parties. Supervise and structure practice-based learning, bringing together academic theory, workplace practice and help trainees to develop skills and competencies towards learning outcomes, assessment and qualification. Identify funding opportunities for sonographers, working with the SWITA Radiography Education Lead and SFT. Signpost staff to educational and development opportunities and act as advocate to ensure access to these opportunities Responsible for allocated trainee sonographers, radiologists and student radiographers, - assist with their education and clinical appraisal (assess training needs and set objectives, review of written work, act as appraiser and carry out assessment giving constructive performance feedback and review of achievements using the agreed passport of learning). Liaise with ultrasound leads and designated appraisers to report progress of trainee/ preceptee. Work collaboratively with trainees and educational providers to ensure students can access help and support, including raising concerns related to the trainees' wellbeing and/or mental health, in a pastoral care element to the role. Work with the other regional leads to create a simulation program to enhance and develop skills of trainees within the Taunton hub, using current simulation equipment. Explore new ways of Technology Enhanced Learning and simulation and feedback to the SWITA and SFT Sonography Leadership teams around new and innovate ways of teaching and learning. Review and develop the currently in place preceptorship programme and provide guidance on what is expected of sonographers as they develop in their career Support them as newly qualified sonographers during their preceptorship period Lead the Induction for new substantive staff within the Academy hub. Take a lead role in training colleagues in new or supplementary techniques Work collaboratively to identify, plan and deliver programmes to meet personal and professional development needs of self and others, including acting as an Appraiser for the department. Teach and deliver specialist training in ultrasound, undertake lectures and presentations to groups of ultrasound trainees and practitioners within the specialist modality Contribute to the strategic planning around education and training of the ultrasound workforce for SWITA Familiar with the AHPPracticePlacement Sustainability Framework and self-evaluation tool. Develop and improve quality of training to meet any issues identified by incident reporting. To promote the department by receiving visitors by arranging programmes, Open Days and presentations as appropriate. To perform a comprehensive range of examinations including, but not limited to General Medical, Gynaecology, DVT and Testicular ultrasound. To provide a high-quality service and standards of care, demonstrate expertise in the use of medical ultrasound techniques and to show a thorough understanding of their application for the range of ultrasound examinations, on all sites as allocated. To communicate and interpret complex information using skills and developed specialist knowledge of anatomy and pathology underpinned by theory and practice. Assess the clinical condition of the patient against contra-indications of procedures. To issue reports providing a diagnosis and further management advice on all examinations within the sub-specialty field, adhering to the local trust guidelines and governance. To be fully accountable for ultrasound examinations and exercise a high degree of professional autonomy in the decision-making process that will improve overall patient outcomes. To formulate an appropriate diagnosis and provide a timely, accurate comprehensive and diagnostic report of examinations, and in relevant cases treatment, according to departmental protocols Use judgement skills as to when to discuss unusual or questionable appearances with Consultant Radiologist Communicate complex information regarding patient management based on best available evidence and practice, by ensuring requests are appropriate, investigation is guided by clinical presentation and subsequent findings, results are transmitted in a timely manner and appropriate onward referral is undertaken. Vet request forms, interpret clinicians' requirements and determine/modify technique when appropriate Assess clinical history, interpret images and refer patient for further imaging if required to support ultrasound findings, in accordance with departmental protocols Communicate complex information and liaise with patients, clinicians, other healthcare professionals and representatives as part of a multidisciplinary team, in an effective manner to ensure high standards of patient care and an efficient service Adhere to principles of informed consent Attend appropriate MDT meetings Collaborate with other U/S leads and medical staff to ensure a good throughput of patient examinations is achieved across all sites (daily and weekly) and help make adjustments for unpredictable situations. Collaborate with the SWITA Radiography Education Lead and Co-Clinical Director for Radiography, work to financial controls to ensure any pay and non -pay budget is monitored and not exceeded To contribute to the service business planning round, especially with regard to workforce and training within the Taunton Academy hub. Contribute to the strategic direction of the Taunton Academy hub and the organisation, ensuring an effective and responsive radiology service. Work with the SWITA Radiography Education Lead and SFT Sonography Leads to take responsibility for ultrasound service delivery and clinical governance Assist in clinical evaluation of equipment purchased for the Taunton Academy hub. To ensure images are correctly identified, data entry is correct and reports and other documents are stored, transported and handled securely, in accordance with the Trust's confidentiality policy Be competent in the range of ultrasound imaging equipment and Picture Archive Communication Solution (PACS) enabling quality image acquisition, efficient review and transmission of images and scanning documents Participate in maintaining an ultrasound QA programme to ensure consistency of operator and equipment, report potential malfunctions and liaise with equipment suppliers for maintenance of equipment The post holder will be actively involved in any processes required to gain and maintain QSI CQC standards. Be familiar with and adhere to Trust / Departmental policies and procedures including Infection control, Manual Handling and Fire regulations, Risk Management strategy including Repetitive Strain Injury, Supporting Attendance, Performance Management etc and take action necessary to reduce risk. Work with the SWITA Radiography Education Lead and SFT Sonography Leads with HR processes when required eg investigating complaints and grievances Participate in interview process for recruitment and selection within the Taunton Academy hub. Actively search for evidence of new developments and technological advances, critically appraise evidence and identify opportunities to apply new knowledge to own and others' practice. Engage in research and development to contribute to the evidence base and share best practice, publish and disseminate findings Participate in audit of own practice and wider professional audit/clinical research as required by SWITA, evaluate clinical practice and implement change. Promote a culture of continuous improvement. Maintain professional standards as defined by College of Radiographers policies and Code of Conduct and the Local Trust Values Maintain professional registration at all times where applicable. Take professional responsibility for his/her own actions. Recognise limits of professional competence and be responsible for limiting actions to within an agreed range of competencies and identify areas where further training is required. Maintain a CPD portfolio and participate in the appraisal process. Maintain knowledge of technological and clinical advances to remain conversant with current practice. Maintain an awareness of developments in the NHS and their impact on imaging. Commit to developing self and others. Maintain a good public image both verbally and visually. Maintain and extend good working relationships with all departments and personnel in Somerset FT NHS Trust, GPs etc Expertly operate equipment, manipulate the settings to obtain optimum images requiring manual dexterity and develop hand/eye co-ordination skills to perform interventions. Person Specification Qualifications Essential Pg Dip or Masters Medical Ultrasound Desirable Post grad Teaching qualification Leadership skills/qualifications Experience Essential 4 yrs clinical experience in NHS setting Experience teaching practical ultrasound skills Exceptional communication skills with both patients/carer and clinical teams, both verbal and written Desirable Experience mentoring trainee sonographers / radiology Registars Additional Criteria Essential Driving licence with business use insurance Use of a vehicle for work related travel Person Specification Qualifications Essential Pg Dip or Masters Medical Ultrasound Desirable Post grad Teaching qualification Leadership skills/qualifications Experience Essential 4 yrs clinical experience in NHS setting Experience teaching practical ultrasound skills Exceptional communication skills with both patients/carer and clinical teams, both verbal and written Desirable Experience mentoring trainee sonographers / radiology Registars Additional Criteria Essential Driving licence with business use insurance Use of a vehicle for work related travel Disclosure and Barring Service Check This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions. UK Registration Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window). Additional information Disclosure and Barring Service Check This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions. UK Registration Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window). Employer details Employer name Somerset NHS Foundation Trust Address Musgrove Park Hospital Musgrove Road Taunton Somerset TA1 5DA Employer's website https://www.somersetft.nhs.uk/ (Opens in a new tab)