Message from Lisa Ayers, HSST Training Programme Director
Welcome to the HSST October Monthly Memo. I want to take this opportunity to welcome all new HSSTs and their supervisors. This memo aims to draw together all of the key announcements and opportunities for HSSTs in one place, we hope you find it useful.
We are very pleased to announce the launch of the HSST Research Abstract platform on the website. This showcases some of the amazing research being conducted by HSSTs and allows trainees to search for other HSSTs working in a similar field to aid collaborations.
Thank you to all of the HSSTs who provided these details for the platform. If you were not able to submit your details and abstract in the previous call and you have an approved research proposal, please complete this form by 30th November to add your submission.
View the HSST Research Abstract platform
Submit your details and abstract here
I would also like to highlight the Online HSST Train the Trainer event taking place in December and the online resources for supervisors. If you are a new HSST supervisor or just want a recap, please find more information in this email.
Expressions of interest for 2021 HSST intake
Due to the current climate, a decision has been taken to extend the deadline for requesting funding for HSST posts, for trainees commencing in 2021/22.
The online portal will now close on Friday 30th October and can be accessed using the link below.
We hope that by extending the deadline this will give your organisation the opportunity to submit your requests for posts.
If you have any questions regarding the commissioning process or completing the online form, please e-mail healthcare.science.wm@hee.nhs.uk
Take the healthcare science 2021/22: demand scoping survey. (Expired link)
Applications for interruption
In light of the ongoing impact of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic on training we are offering an opportunity to request a formal, approved interruption to your training, that will then extend your completion date.
We appreciate that, as many HSST trainees work in senior roles and are likely to be called upon to support clinical services or may be redeployed to provide support elsewhere, this may mean there is limited or no time to train. We want to try and support all of our learners as far as possible and to reassure you that the School is working hard with your education providers to ensure that we take account of the impact the pandemic is having on everyone.
We also appreciate that there will be significant variability across the cohorts and different specialist areas and so some trainees may feel that an interruption is not required. We are happy to try and support all trainees to continue to train and complete their programmes as planned where it is safe and possible to do so.
Find out how to apply for an interruption (Expired link)
HSST Train the Trainer goes online
If you have any members of staff that will be new to the role of workplace supervisor and will be taking responsibility for a HSST trainee, this event is essential and is part of the accreditation process. The event will cover the following topics:
- An introduction to the HSST
- The role and responsibilities of the workplace supervisor
- Assessment of work-based evidence and providing feedback
- Using the functions and features in the OneFile e-portfolio
- Supporting trainees throughout the programme
- Having an awareness of equality and diversity as an educator
The online HSST Train the Trainer event will be delivered as two live broadcast webinars taking place at the following times:
- Webinar 1: Thursday 3rd December 2020 at 2pm: An Introduction to the HSST
- Webinar 2: Thursday 10th December 2020 at 2pm: Work-based Activities.
Each webinar will last a maximum of 2 hours. For accreditation purposes, you will need to attend both webinars to obtain your HSST ‘Train the Trainer’ completion certificate. You will also get a certificate of attendance for each individual webinar.
If you are interested in joining these events, please contact the School nshcs.assessment@hee.nhs.uk
Resources for HSST supervisors
We have produced short online guidance for new workplace supervisors. These resources include useful information on your responsibilities as a supervisor, on good training planning behaviours and assessing work-based activities.
View our resources for supervisors
We have also produced short ‘Train the Trainer’ podcasts you can listen to on the go. There are 5 episodes all on different topic areas including, training planning, assessing evidence, OneFile, training support and public and patient involvement.
Listen to our podcasts for supervisors
Black History Month
October is Black History Month in the UK and at the National School of Healthcare Science, we would like to acknowledge and celebrate the history of black healthcare workers and their contributions to science and medicine.
We would also love to hear about what you or your departments may be doing to celebrate. If you would like us to showcase and share this with all our stakeholders at the school, please get in contact with us at nshcs@hee.nhs.uk or tag us on Twitter.
Leadership training opportunity for HSST trainees
The NSHCS is investigating an exciting opportunity for HSSTs and STP Alumni to deliver Leadership training to current STP cohorts as part of a Training Faculty. A great opportunity to meet some of the training and national involvement Standards of Proficiency.
You will need to attend the course itself (4 x 1/2 day webinars) and then commit to delivering the course to at least one cohort (from 2021 onwards).
Message from our Head of Assessment and Research Evaluation
A message from Sandie Gay, NSHCS Head of Assessment and Research Evaluation who is retiring and will be leaving the School at the end of the month.
“It’s been an absolute privilege and interestingly challenging to have been involved in the education, training and assessment of new entrants to the healthcare science workforce at all levels and a pleasure to work with such dedicated and committed professionals. Thank you all very much; I wish you all the very best. Please keep doing healthcare science, it means so very much.”
Health and wellbeing support during COVID-19
You might be worried about Coronavirus (COVID-19) and how it could affect your life. This may include having to stay at home and avoid other people. This might feel difficult or stressful.
But there are lots of things you can try that could help your wellbeing.
Click here for health and wellbeing support.