Background
Sponsored by the National Medical Director of NHS England and managed by FMLM, the scheme is designed to identify and support doctors in training who present with the clearest potential to develop as clinical leaders of the future.
A message from Professor Sir Stephen Powis, National Medical Director, NHSE
Established in 2011, the scheme provides doctors in training with a unique opportunity to spend 12 months in healthcare-affiliated organisations outside of clinical practice to develop their skills in leadership, management, strategy, project management and health policy.
Who is it for?
This scheme is for doctors in training from all specialties who have completed both years of foundation training by the start of the fellowship, commencing 1 September, each year. Candidates are eligible to apply providing they have full General Medical Council registration and will not gain CCT before 1 September of the year they are applying (General Practice ST3 trainees with CCT before or around 1 September of the year they are applying are eligible to apply but will need to defer CCT). Applications are also welcome from public health specialty trainees who meet the eligibility criteria.
Clinical fellows have the opportunity to work with senior leaders to develop their leadership skills and experience in a diverse range of organisations. The participating organisations have the opportunity to be part of a prestigious scheme to develop a growing community of future clinical leaders who will go on to shape healthcare in this country.
Successful candidates gain:
- A range of skills including leadership and management, policy development, project management, research, and analysis ,
- Supported leadership and personal development ,
- The opportunity to lead on key projects which contribute to national sustainable/net zero healthcare priorities ,
- Access to professional healthcare and climate change networks at all levels ,
- A highly developed understanding of sustainable healthcare policy and application ,
- The skills to lead positive change ,
- Enhanced capabilities at developing and working with teams and to support others in developing their own personal insight and effectiveness.
How it works
Candidates may submit an application for a place on the scheme during the recruitment phase each year. Shortlisted candidates are interviewed and successful applicants are seconded from their current NHSE organisation to take up a fellowship role for 12 months, starting 1 September, as an out‐of‐programme experience (OOPE, or equivalent).
Secondments are at the discretion of applicants’ substantive organisations and approval from substantive HR, finance and clinical directors should be sought alongside applications. We have scheduled a seven-week application window to ensure candidates have adequate time to secure support from these individuals before submitting their application.
Clinical fellows work in an apprenticeship model to the most senior leaders in NHSE and national healthcare-related organisations. The scheme offers an unparalleled experience and opportunity to develop a range of skills while involved in key projects that contribute to national healthcare priorities.
Hear from clinical fellow alumni about why you should apply to the scheme
Interested?
Applications are now closed for 2024/25 recruitment.