Radiographer Apprenticeships - Career Change

Hello,

I'm looking to have a change in career in the near future after 10 years working in IT, and radiography has really caught my attention.

I don't have a degree and full time uni is a no go due to bills, mortgage etc., but I know that degree apprenticeships with the NHS exist, but have also read that these are more often than not offered to current medical staff. What are the chances that one of these would be offered to someone not already employed within the NHS?

I have no experience in health care and so am looking to volunteer at my local hospital to gain experience and will also be completing an A Level in Biology and possibly Maths before applying.

Any advice or tips would be massively appreciated, I'm just trying to weigh up my options before making a decision.

Thanks.

A one-year Access to HE Diploma might be a better alternative to A levels if you need level 3 qualifications for an apprenticeship.
https://www.accesstohe.ac.uk/
Are you aware that if you did choose to do the degree course, you would be entitled to an annual NHS training grant of £6k per year in addition to your maintenance loan (as long as you study at a uni in England)?
https://www.nhsbsa.nhs.uk/nhs-learning-support-fund-lsf