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NHS Scotland

Management Training Scheme

Recruitment process

Recruitment image

We are committed to fostering an inclusive application process, and are actively working to ensure that all candidates have an equal opportunity to demonstrate their capabilities during the recruitment process. If you require reasonable adjustments to accommodate your specific needs during any Stage of this process, please contact our dedicated support team by sending an email to us.

More information about our equality, diversity and human rights commitment at NES website.

3 - 23 February 2025

Stage 1

Online application

  1. Read all the supporting information at Guidance for applicants
  2. Complete the online application form.
  3. Application window will be open for three weeks.

5-12 March 2025

Stage 2

Online psychometric assessment

After Stage 1 of the application process, candidates will receive an email requesting participation in an online psychometric assessment. This assessment is designed to evaluate the numerical, deductive and inductive reasoning abilities, and will be conducted by an external agency.

For more information on how to prepare for psychometric testing, visit the UK Government website https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/careers-advice/how-to-prepare-for-psychometric-tests

Planned for 22 - 24 April 2025 (subject to change)

Stage 3

Online interactive assessment process

Online Interactive Assessment Centre

After completing application and psychometric tests, successful candidates will be invited to participate in an online interactive assessment centre. This assessment will include both, individual and group exercises, and will be conducted by an external agency.

Planned for week beginning 12 May 2025 (subject to change)

Stage 4

Online interviews

After the interactive assessment centre, successful candidates will be invited to a values-based interview. The online interview will last approximately 90 minutes.

May - July 2025

Stage 5

Pre-employment checks, offers and contracts

  1. The successful candidates will be informed of the interview outcome.
  2. Those identified as a 'preferred candidate' will receive a conditional offer, pending successful completion of pre-employment checks.
  3. After successfully completed checks, candidates will receive offer letters and contracts.
  4. Candidates are confirmed their host region and will work with the Scheme Manager to identify a relevant post-graduate course.
  5. Stage 5 takes approximately one to two months.

Starting 1 September 2025

Stage 6

Induction to the Management Training Scheme

  1. The trainees have an opportunity to explore diverse NHS Scotland services within their host region and across Scotland.
  2. Participants will be provided with an introduction to a general manager role.
  3. General management trainees will start their study on a relevant post-graduate course.
  4. Stage 6 is approximately two months after candidate receives contract.

Important information before starting your application

Our selection process is based on six leadership capabilities:

  1. self-leadership
  2. vision
  3. collaborating and influencing
  4. motivating and inspiring
  5. creativity and innovation
  6. empowering

These capabilities can be demonstrated by various skills and behaviours. For detailed description of these capabilities, please refer to the 'Guidance for Applicants' section.