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Frequently asked questions

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Application form 

Our selection process centres on assessing a set of skills and behaviours known as leadership capabilities. In the application form, we will inquire on five of these: self-leadership, vision, collaborating and influencing, motivating and inspiring, and creativity and innovation. For more information, please refer to the Leadership capabilities section.

The character counting function may differ due to variations in software, which may include punctuation, spaces, etc.

The recruitment system software operates differently and may omit punctuation but will retain the relevant written information. 

While this should not typically happen, if the individual encounters issues with our system and runs out of time, they should take a screenshot and email it to us for investigation. 

  

Yes, the individual can edit their personal details at any time. 

  

Psychometric assessment

The online psychometric assessments test applicants in numerical and verbal reasoning. The methodology to support the assessments is evidence based and validated, and will include:  

  • Numerical Reasoning: The ability to make correct decisions or inferences from numerical or statistical data, and to work with numerical data in a realistic workplace context. 

  • Inductive Reasoning: The ability for critical thinking and problem solving; identify patterns in data and generate innovative, multiple possible solutions. 

  • Deductive Reasoning (Verbal): The ability to draw logical conclusions based on information provided, identify strengths and weaknesses of arguments, and complete scenarios using incomplete information.   

We aim to ensure that our assessment process is as fair and accessible as possible. For any requirements for reasonable adjustments , please let us know by contacting us via mts.enquiries@nes.scot.nhs.uk.  

Eligibility and qualifications

Yes, the individual can apply if they anticipate qualifying at that level by the start of the Scheme in September. If this applies to them, they should select 'yes' when asked if they are qualified to SCQF level 10 and provide details in the 'future qualifications' section. Please note, the offer of contract is dependent on the candidate holding the required level of qualification by the start of the Scheme.  

Yes, we welcome applicants who are passionate about enhancing health and care in Scotland. The specific subject area of their qualification is not a barrier to applying. 

Yes, they can apply. To be eligible, their qualification should be equivalent to a minimum of SCQF level 10. Selection is primarily based on their application assessment and interview performance.

Yes, they are eligible to apply regardless of when they obtained their qualification. The timing of their qualification does not affect their eligibility. The organisation encourages individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences to apply. 

International candidates and visas

In very exceptional circumstances, NES may offer sponsorship to help candidates apply for a Skilled Worker visa. The availability of sponsorship depends on individual circumstances and eligibility. Those who will require a Skilled Worker visa are asked to ensure they check the eligibility criteria with the Home Office before making an application. Comprehensive information about the Skilled Worker visa requirements can be found at: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/immigration-rules/immigration-rules-appendix-skilled-worker.  

Due to the nature of the role, all trainees must be based within Scotland and must be able to travel throughout Scotland as a part of the role. It is the candidates responsibility to re-locate where applicable.  

Accessibility and adjustments

For candidates with disabilities, we have implemented a Guaranteed Interview Scheme (GIS). This implies that candidates with disabilities, who meet the minimum criteria as outlined in the Person Specification, will receive a guaranteed interview. For MTS applicants, this means an invitation to participate in the online Assessment Centre.   

The minimum criteria are assessed by both, the application form questions and the online psychometric assessments.  

It is important to note that there may be occasions where it is not practicable or appropriate to interview all disabled people who meet the minimum criteria for the job. In certain recruitment situations such as high-volume, NES may wish to limit the overall numbers of assessments offered to both disabled people and non-disabled people. 

In these circumstances NES may select the disabled candidates who best meet the minimum criteria for the job rather than all of those that meet the minimum criteria, as they would do for non-disabled applicants. 

Individuals who anticipate or encounter challenges in completing the online form or assessments for any reason, are encouraged to reach out to discuss their requirements by contacting the team at mts.enquiries@nes.scot.nhs.uk.   

To discuss workplace adjustments for individuals with disabilities, please contact our support team mts.enquiries@nes.scot.nhs.uk. We cover the costs of reasonable adjustments.

If an individual is deaf and uses sign language, they should inform the organisation of their communication preferences. The organisation will collaborate with them to help ensure effective communication throughout their Scheme. 

We understand that health conditions can vary over time. If there is a requirement for additional time or accommodations to complete the Scheme due to a long-term health condition, please let us know. We will explore options to support individuals' needs.  

Pay and conditions

The trainee salary in the Scheme is calculated as 65% of the Agenda for Change Band 6 Scale maximum in year one, 70% in year two, and 75% in year three.   

More information at the Trainee salary and benefits section.  

Current NHS Scotland employees, who earn an annual salary exceeding the specified starting salary may qualify for a limited pay protection, allowing them to commence at a higher starting salary contingent upon presenting salary documentation.     

In such circumstance, the starting salary will be set up to a maximum of 85% of the top spine point at Agenda for Change Band 6 salary scale.  Annual 5% increases may be applied in year two and three up to the maximum of 85%.  

MTS trainees are subject to the standard maternity policy, as outlined in the  Maternity Paternity Adoption And Sharedparentalleave Policy

This is a salaried trainee position, and falls outside the scope of public funds access. For more comprehensive information, please refer to the Scottish Government policy: Public Funds 1

Structure of the Scheme

The current iteration of the Management Training Scheme is structured as a full-time programme, encompassing academic study, leadership development, and workplace experience over a 3-year period. This includes completing a post-graduate course and undertaking various placements within a host Board, with the requirement to fulfil all modules and learning outcomes. 

However, we are committed to welcoming applicants from diverse backgrounds and are open to considering requests for flexible working arrangements and reasonable adjustments on an individual basis. It's essential to note that as the placements are in different NHS Scotland Boards, NHS Education for Scotland cannot predetermine the specific service or business needs of each Board. Any flexible working arrangements would need to be discussed and agreed upon by the individual and the relevant host Board.  

References 

One of the references should be from a current or most recent line manager. The details provided must cover at last three years of employment. If the employment history is shorter than three years, providers for suitable character referees include a lecturer, course leader or teacher. Please do not use family or friends. We will only contact the referees of preferred candidates following the recruitment and selection process.  

Working in the NHS Scotland

NHS Scotland is a large and diverse organisation with around 160,000 employees spread across multiple sites throughout the country. While candidates will have the opportunity to gain experience in various areas and interact with different professional cultures, our primary focus is on fostering collaboration and partnerships across boundaries and organisations, including Health and Care. We promote a culture of compassion, collaboration and inclusivity. 

The roles within NHS Scotland can be challenging, and we are dedicated to supporting all staff by actively promoting and upholding our organisational values. We prioritise staff engagement and continuously strive to improve the staff experience. Management Trainees' support structure include a mentor, placement coordinator and line manager, coach and the Scheme Manager, all committed to the success of the trainee

During the three-year Scheme, candidates will be hosted within a NHS Scotland Health Board, their host Board, where they will work in operational and strategic placements. Trainees may be assigned to any one of the 22 Health Boards, and as part of their training, they should anticipate some level of travel within their Board area and nationally during the Scheme.

The allocation of host Boards will be discussed with successful candidates. Decisions will be made based on placement availability, and we will make an effort, where possible, to consider candidates' needs and preferences.

Throughout the three years in the Scheme, trainees will undergo placements within their host Boards. The year one and year two host Board placements are nine months each. A successful completion of the year two is followed by a 12-month placement in the host Board. In addition, trainees will have an opportunity to choose a three-month elective placement at the start of year two, to help gain a broader view of health and care delivery and management, and the role of other sectors and partner organisations in these services. More information on the Scheme Structure.

You will develop a specific theme in line with the Scheme and with support from the wider MTS Team and organise the arrangements for this period of time. This may involve domestic travel and there is a small financial contribution to any of these arrangements. It may include organisational visits, learning from best practice, short term placements with relevant organisations and / or project work.  

While on the Management Training Scheme, the placements are generally within the Host Board area. However, trainees are expected to undertake some level of travel within their Board area and nationally during the Scheme. This travel may be related to a placement, training, or events.  Â