NHS employees
The NHS Graduate Management Training Scheme (GMTS) is open to current NHS employees, known as ‘in-service’ trainees.
We welcome applications from qualifying NHS staff, recognising that in-service trainees have experience they can use and develop on the Scheme. In-service trainees can provide valuable feedback to colleagues and peers, on how healthcare services work in practice.
In-service webinar recording
South West region’s webinar recording includes an overview of the Scheme and assessment information – as well as trainee insights. If you’re an NHS employee and are interested in applying to join the Scheme in any region of England – find out how GMTS can support your development into an NHS leader of the future.
Same process, same Scheme
Applying for GMTS is the same process at every stage for all candidates, whether current NHS employees or external applicants. Every applicant receives the same high-quality support during the selection process, and this continues if you are successful in joining the Scheme.
Academic study is a key component of the Scheme, so it is important that everyone applying meets the same eligibility criteria – including academic qualifications and right to work in the UK. There are no exceptions for candidates already working in the NHS.
Choice of locations
Like other applicants, NHS in-service staff can choose up to 3 preferred locations when applying to the Scheme. We recognise that some colleagues are unable to move away from the area in which they currently live and work. You are given the opportunity to state personal circumstances that will be taken into consideration. While we are keen to accommodate applicants’ preferences, we cannot guarantee that a place will be offered in your preferred region. More information can be found in Locations.
Terms of employment
The GMTS is a full-time scheme and would not be compatible with part-time or other working arrangements.
NHS in-service candidates can either agree a secondment with their current NHS employer or would need to resign in order to accept the GMTS offer. Secondments are arranged on locally agreed terms with your current NHS employer and are at their discretion. If a secondment is agree, it should be confirmed in writing before any GMTS offer is made final.
In-service FAQs
What do you mean by ‘NHS in-service staff’?
NHS employees, currently working within the NHS in any role
I currently work for the NHS and want to join the GMTS. Do I need a degree, or will you recognise an equivalent qualification?
Yes. The entry requirements and assessment process are the same for all applicants.
What Terms and Conditions will NHS in-service GMTS trainees be employed on?
You’ll be employed on Agenda for Change (AfC) terms and conditions during your time on the GMTS (except for pay). All service is reckonable in line with the AfC terms and conditions.
I have an NHS pension from my existing role. What happens when I join the Scheme?
You’ll be automatically enrolled into the NHS Pension Scheme unless you decide to opt out. If you’re transferring from another NHS employer and you’re already part of the NHS Pension Scheme you won’t need to do anything as your pension will automatically transfer.
I am a current NHS employee and my earnings are over the GMTS entry salary. Will my pay be protected?
You’ll receive a minimum starting salary of £26,382 on commencement, plus where applicable (dependant on the location of your placement) the NHS High Cost Area Supplement (HCAS).
If you are currently an NHS employee earning more per annum than the starting salary stipulated above, you may be eligible to commence on a higher starting salary. Please note this and the annual 5% increases are up to a maximum 85% of the top spine point at band 6 salary (currently equating to £34,499 per annum on the 22/23 pay rates).
What will my annual leave entitlement be when I join the Scheme, and will my previous service be considered for this?
While on the NHS GMTS you will be entitled to the annual leave entitlement as laid out by the Agenda for Change (AfC) contract. Details can be found at NHS Employers website.
Leave entitlement is linked to length of service and the table below outlines leave entitlements:
If you’re currently an NHS in-service employee, you should indicate this when you apply as your reckonable service may be considered. This will be managed as part of the employment process.
As part of the pre-employment checks, an Inter-Authority Transfer (IAT) will be run through the Electronic Staff Record (ESR) to determine confirmation of recognised service. Read more information about continuity of service at the NHS Employers website.
Will I need to leave my current role to take a place on the NHS GMTS?
Yes, you’ll need to leave your current role to join the Scheme. It’s not possible to complete the Scheme and have a secondary role in the NHS, due the commitment you will be required to make for work, training and study.
Your current employer may consider seconding you to the Scheme. This is at the discretion of each local employer and you must discuss this with them prior to making your application.
Secondment policies vary across NHS organisations and cannot be influenced by the Scheme. Applicants are responsible for the arrangement of these agreements.
We welcome candidates who have an approved secondment agreement in place. This must be agreed in writing with your employer ahead of any Scheme offer being made. You will need to notify us at the assessment centre stage if you have an approved secondment agreement in place
If you don’t have a secondment agreement, you’ll need to resign your substantive NHS post. You’ll be issued a 24-month contract (30 months for Finance trainees) with the Business Services Authority (BSA) as your employing organisation on behalf of GMTS