75% of Medical Administration Academy graduates find work as next Mid & East Antrim programme planned

Most recent participants and course leaders from the Medical Administration Academy in Mid & East Antrim Area

People across Mid and East Antrim looking for a career in healthcare administration are being encouraged to register their interest for the next Medical Administration Academy after the latest programme helped participants build the skills needed to work in local GP practices.

The eight-week academy, delivered by the Northern GP Federation Support Unit (NFSU) in partnership with Mid & East Antrim Labour Market Partnership (LMP), has already produced strong employment results, with three programmes now completed in the borough.

Strong employment record

Recent graduates from Mid and East Antrim’s Medical Administration Academy with their certificates

Since launching in 2025, 28 people have enrolled across the three Mid and East Antrim academies, with 23 successfully completing the programme—an overall completion rate of 82%.

Employment outcomes have also been encouraging. Across the first two academies, 75% of participants secured jobs, while 62% remained in sustained employment.

The latest cohort recently celebrated completing the face-to-face programme, which combines practical training with employability support for people hoping to pursue careers in GP administration.

Preparing participants for life in a GP practice

Delivered over two days a week for eight weeks, the academy gives participants an insight into the day-to-day running of GP practices while developing practical and professional skills.

Training includes communication and interpersonal skills, care navigation, patient services, clinical systems and other key aspects of medical administration.

Participants also meet Practice Managers and experienced GP practice staff, helping them build industry knowledge and valuable professional connections before entering the workplace.

Building confidence for employment

Around 70% of participants completed the most recent academy and are now exploring employment, work-shadowing and placement opportunities within General Practice.

One participant described the impact the programme had on their confidence, saying:

“My communication and confidence have improved, and I feel I have been so well equipped.”

The programme is designed to help address administrative workforce shortages within General Practice while creating new employment opportunities for local people across Mid and East Antrim.

Next academy already being planned

Hands-on training for the medical admin participants

Following the continued success of the initiative, the Northern GP Federation Support Unit is preparing to launch another Medical Administration Academy later this year.

GP practices with current or upcoming administrative vacancies, or those able to offer work-shadowing opportunities, are also being invited to get involved.

Anyone interested in joining a future academy can contact the Northern GP Federation Support Unit by emailing info@northernfsu.co.uk or calling 028 9620 8333 to register their interest.