Operating Department Practitioners are an important part of the operating theatre team, working with surgeons, theatre nurses and anaesthetists to ensure that operations are as safe and effective as possible.

You need an approved degree or higher education diploma in Operating Department Practice and registration with the Health and Care Professions Council. A degree apprenticeship in Operating Department Practice may be available in your area.

You will be working in a pressurised atmosphere on intricate and complex procedures and will need to be calm and be able to concentrate for long periods.

You can find more information via the College of Operating Department Practitioners (codp.org.uk) and the Health and Care Professions Council (hcpc-uk.org).