Michael

So I applied, as simply as possible, I thought it was the best avenue for progressing my career., within the NHSI was a band three, and I was looking to move on with my skills.

I saw MTS as the best avenue for that rapid professional growth where you get such a diversity of experiences that Lauren was mentioning., when you're at that entry level, your options are to climb the banding system and slowly progress over many years,or this rapid scheme here. on top of that, the support to achieve a master's qualification, it's excellent, and because of that and this part, that component of this scheme, I'll likely be the first person in my family to graduate university with a master's degree.

And beyond that, the culture and values framework of NHS Scotland meant that I knew I'd be supported as a dyslexic and physically disabled worker to really achieve my potential I knew I'd

I know that the previous role I had become fairly monotonous and had I, I had reached a ceiling, with this scheme, there is no ceiling and as long as you are self motivated, I knew I could really go forward with the scheme.

Thanks very much, Michael, and what have you enjoyed most about MTS so far?

A number of things have been absolutely amazing about this scheme first and foremost my colleagues within the MTS uh, cohort have been tremendous. We're all very supportive of each other and beyond that, we've become really good pals despite the fact we're spread across the country, the diversity of what you can do and where you can end up is really exciting. If a little anxiety producing, you have so much opportunity to apply yourself in different roles and areas, uh, prove your learning and grow. My experience with MTS is a little unique because I've completed placements in three different locations, I've gotten a huge amount out of the work that I've put in and I've really enjoyed the academic learning aspect.

It's great doing my in-person course, at uni and being supported to do that. It's very rare, in Scotland to get a sponsor to do that. So it's an amazing opportunity to seize with both hands.

Thanks Michael. And what advice would you give anyone who was thinking about applying for MTS?

Spend as much time as possible on the application. Don't leave it to the last weekend as I did,

Get started on it as early as possible, and make sure to link your answers with the leadership capabilities on the website. Beyond that, don't be put off by any one stage of the application process because it can be quite intensive. Especially the psychometrics takes a very 360 holistic approach and if you've got the skills and can articulate them, they really want to hear from you.

so if you really want to add diverse, varied experience where no two days are identical, get your application in.

Thanks very much, Michael. Anything else you would like to add?

Only that once you are in the scheme, that is a wealth of support to help you really succeed. There's a huge amount of mentorship in house training and development programs. It's in the organization's interest and in the scheme's interest to make sure that you are well looked after and that you carry on your career throughout the NHS or social care, whatever you end up.

Thanks Michael. That's brilliant.