Trainee Reporting Sonographer

This is an exciting opportunity to undertake a 24-month training post combining supervised clinical training with an accredited Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) in Medical Ultrasound at the department’s chosen Higher Education Institution. Training will be delivered by an experienced team of sonographers and provide the knowledge, technical skills and professional behaviours required to become a competent Reporting Sonographer. Modules will be determined by service needs and will include General Medical Ultrasound, Obstetric Ultrasound, Gynaecological Ultrasound, Testes/Scrotal Ultrasound and Ultrasound Physics.

The successful applicant will take responsibility for their professional development and demonstrate a proactive approach to both academic study and clinical practice. Protected study time will be available where service demands allow, although self-directed learning outside working hours will be required. Attendance at all mandatory university teaching sessions, whether online or in person, is expected throughout the programme.

During the second year, following successful competency assessments and an appropriate preceptorship period, the trainee will undertake independent practice in accredited modules contributing to the seven-day service delivery as a Band 7 Reporting Sonographer.

This role offers an excellent opportunity to develop advanced clinical skills within a supportive environment while working towards a recognised ultrasound qualification.

Working under the supervision of qualified sonographers, the post-holder will develop the clinical knowledge, technical expertise and practical skills required to perform and report ultrasound examinations developing the necessary clinical decision-making skills to support diagnosis and patient management.

The trainee will gain experience in coordinating the daily operational workload of the department, including referral vetting and patient prioritisation. They will be expected to provide high standards of patient-centred care, demonstrating effective communication skills and the ability to sensitively explain findings and onward care pathways.

The post holder will contribute to the delivery of a high-quality seven-day ultrasound service . They will work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams across Radiology and Maternity Services, maintaining professional relationships and escalating concerns regarding training or competency appropriately.

Following successful completion of the PgDip, the post holder will work autonomously as a Reporting Sonographer, undertaking and reporting examinations within their scope of practice. They will be responsible for the safe use of specialised ultrasound equipment valued between £20,000 and £120,000. The role also includes participation in audit, research, service development and teaching while maintaining professional accountability to ensure safe, effective patient care.

The Ultrasound Department comprises 12 WTE Radiographer and Midwife Sonographers delivering 30,000 examinations annually across Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust. The service operates from 10 ultrasound rooms, including five within the Women’s Health Unit, three within the Radiology Department at Torbay Hospital and two at Newton Abbot Community Hospital. We provide inpatient, ambulatory and outpatient services, supporting referrals from Acute Medicine, Surgery, Emergency Department, Paediatrics, Obstetrics, Gynaecology, DVT pathways and General Practice. The department is proud to deliver a high-quality sonographer-led service with practitioners working in extended roles, including ultrasound-guided musculoskeletal steroid injections and fine needle aspiration procedures. Sonographers are encouraged to expand their scope of practice through specialist training opportunities, including developmental dysplasia of the hip screening, endometriosis imaging, 3D transvaginal ultrasound for recurrent miscarriage and fertility pathways, and HyCoSy examinations. A strong commitment to evidence-based practice, research and professional development underpins the service, fostering a culture of innovation, learning and improvement. The team is dedicated to delivering responsive, patient-centred care and supporting clinical pathways. Sonographers contribute to a seven-day service, including weekends and Bank Holidays, ensuring timely access to diagnostic ultrasound examinations.

Full Vacancy details and the expectations on completion of the PgDip in Medical Ultrasound can be found on the attached Band 7 Reporting Sonographer Job Description/Person Specification. Please refer to your suitability to the post in your supporting information from the role requirements or person specification .