Moving on up: the HCA workforce development escalator at Kingston University

Robust continuing professional development for associate practitioners (APs) and healthcare assistants (HCAs) is essential for ensuring excellent care for patients, job satisfaction and career progression. Registered nurse mentors also need know that APs and HCAs have the knowledge and skill to undertake a delegated task safely. The Faculty of Health, Social Care and Education at Kingston University, recently rated top in the NHS Health Education performance ratings in London, is committed to developing APs and HCAs. This article provides APs and HCAs with an overview of the education and training offered at Kingston University, and how this relates to the proposed Care Certificate being piloted by Health Education England, Skills for Care and Skill for Health (2014).