Preceptorship

It provides a structured transition from student to registrant, allowing preceptees to consolidate their skills and knowledge, and develop new skills as required by their job descriptions, department needs as well as those defined by governing bodies such as the Nursing and Midwifery Council and Health and Care Professions Council. The development outcomes are also used to support the appraisal process.

The programme aims to continue the lifelong learning process from the point of registration and onwards as staff gain experience within their professions.

The programme is being used as a benchmark for all staff as a requirement before being considered for further development as future leaders and advancement to bands 6 – 9 roles.

The programme is structured in theme days to ensure content is linked in terms of relevance. The overarching themes are knowledge and skills acquisition delivered in a variety of blended learning styles, enabling attendees to gain knowledge and skills via simulation, taught sessions, group work, e-learning, team building exercises, reflection and critical thinking to ensure development is tailored to all learning abilities.

The programme is delivered by department leads who are specialists in their areas, ensuring attendees receive current evidence based knowledge provided by experts in each field of expertise.

Preceptees are provided with a preceptor or a buddy, a peer who is likely to have mentorship experience.

They are also responsible for signposting ways to achieve targets by facilitating regular reviews, ensuring preceptees are working within their defined role and are therefore fit for purpose.

Preceptors can attend a Trust half day preceptorship workshop to ensure they understand and are prepared for the role.

Line managers are responsible for releasing preceptees to attend study sessions, or self-directed e-learning packages as part of the programme.

They can also help with ensuring preceptees are supported and developed when they are becoming part of the team. Along with preceptors, they can also help with facilitating clinical supervision and reflection on a 1 – 1 basis or group sessions.