Entry requirements and skills needed (decontamination and sterile services)
This page has information on the entry requirements and training needed to work decontamination science in the NHS.
Entry requirements
To enter an apprentice role, you’ll usually need GCSE English, Maths and Science at grade 4/C or above, a level 2 vocational qualification or equivalent level of knowledge.
Progression into the education programme which includes the IDSc Technical Certificate and Foundation Degree Decontamination is suitable for apprentice decontamination technicians who have completed an in-house induction training programme – this normally takes 12-18 months so that you are familiar with the processes and procedures involved in the decontamination of medical devices.
To enter a technician role, you’ll need the Institute of Decontamination Sciences (IDSc) Technical Certificate or NVQ 3 Decontamination) or equivalent level of knowledge and experience through decontamination training.
Find out more about the training you’ll receive for a career as a decontamination science technician.