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There are three entry points into haematology (1) with at least two if not three A-levels including science subjects (or equivalent level-3 qualifications) and a good spread of GCSEs at A-C grade, to take an accredited BSc degree in healthcare science (blood sciences) for the NHS Practitioner Training Programme (PTP); (2) through the NHS Scientist Training Programme for which you’ll need a 1st or 2.1 either in an undergraduate honours degree or an integrated master’s degree in a relevant pure or applied science. If you have a relevant 2.2 honours degree, you’ll also be considered if you have a higher degree in a subject relevant to the specialism for which you are applying. Evidence of research experience is desirable; or (3) after gaining postgraduate qualifications and/or considerable relevant experience as a clinical scientist through Higher Specialist Scientist Training (HSST).

NHS staff will usually work a standard 37.5 hours per week. They may work a shift pattern, especially as blood laboratories operate 24/7. Most jobs in the NHS are covered by the Agenda for Change (AfC) pay scales. Your salary in haematology would typically be between AfC Bands 5 and 9, depending on your role and level of responsibility. As a healthcare science practitioner, you’d usually start on band 5, with opportunities to progress to more senior positions. Trainee clinical scientists train at band 6 level, and qualified clinical scientists are generally appointed at band 7. With experience and further qualifications, including Higher Specialist Scientist Training, you could apply for posts up to band 9. Terms and conditions of service can vary for employers outside the NHS.

An interest in science and technology, good communication skills, comfortable using modern technology and complex equipment, attention to detail and able to work as part of a team.

With further training or experience or both, you may be able to develop your career further and apply for vacancies in areas such as further specialisation, management, research, or teaching.

You need to be a registered adult, child, mental health or learning disability nurse to apply for a district nursing training programme. The programmes are known as specialist practitioner programmes, are at degree level and usually run over one academic year (32 weeks) full time or part-time equivalent. A level 7 apprenticeship standard in district nursing has been approved for delivery and will offer an alternative route.

District nursing jobs usually start at band 6 but there is opportunity to move up the bands with more experience. District nurses in the NHS will usually work standard hours of 37.5 per week. Most will work weekdays but there might be some weekend work. Terms and conditions can vary for employers outside of the NHS.

You will need to be adaptable and resourceful, working in a variety of workplaces and without the resources of a hospital at hand. You'll need to be well organised, confident and able to cope in potentially challenging situations. Leadership and management skills are also important as you will supervise and lead a team of community staff nurses and healthcare assistants in the delivery of care.

You could lead a team of nurses and healthcare assistants and with experience you could progress to community sister and community matron. Some nurses decide to do into service management, teaching or clinical academic research.