Sonography and STEPS Programme

The SWITA ultrasound team has a dedicated team of practice educators working across the South West to support ultrasound training and professional development. Whether you’re just beginning your journey into sonography or you’re a qualified practitioner looking to advance your career, our mission is to provide structured, accessible and high-quality learning opportunities tailored to your needs.

Learners 

If you’re about to start or already in training, our Sonography Training, Education & Professional Support​ (STEPS) programme offers a pathway to help you build confidence and competence in your clinical practice. Here’s how we support you:

• Face-to-Face Learning – hands-on sessions with experienced educators in clinical environments, offering real-time feedback and guidance
• Simulated Clinical Practice – safe, controlled settings using advanced simulation tools to replicate real-world scanning scenarios – ideal for building skills
• Remote ScanTrainer® Cloud – access to virtual scanning modules anytime, anywhere. This platform allows learners to practice techniques and receive automated feedback on performance
• Academy Learning Platform – a central hub for e-learning modules, resources, and assessments – designed to complement practical training and deepen theoretical understanding
• Webinars & workshops via MS Teams – online sessions covering key topics, case studies and Q&A opportunities to reinforce learning. Including support with mock exams to reduce the fear of the unknown
• Community of Practice – connect with and share your learning experience with peers
• Dedicated Practice Educators – available both regionally and locally who provide one-to-one support, help navigate training requirements and ensure learners stay on track throughout their development

Who is eligible?

Eligibility for the programme requires trainee sonographers to be enrolled on an accredited HEI medical ultrasound course, with a sonographer post confirmed by their NHS employer following qualification. Eligible trainee sonographers should be working in an NHS Trust based in the South West.

When does the programme commence?

This programme runs annually, starting in January.

How do I apply?

Expressions of interest are collated annually from May onwards. Individual applications will not be considered and must be submitted by your line manager. Applications from outside the South West region will not be considered.

Launching soon

Qualified sonographers

We will soon be offering a range of opportunities for qualified sonographers to help you grow professionally and reach your full potential:

• Professional Development Support – tailored guidance to help you achieve career goals, pursue advanced roles, or specialise in new areas of sonography
• Career Progression Courses – designed to build leadership, teaching, or specialist scanning skills, aligned with national frameworks and local service needs
• Collaboration with Clinical Specialists – opportunities to work alongside experts in niche fields, gaining insights and expanding your clinical repertoire