We are aware that terminology varies between workplaces and that in many life sciences laboratories ‘Training Officer’ is a recognised job role. This role would be responsible for education and training at all levels in the department.
This ‘Training Officer Person Specification’ only relates to the person nominated by the trainee as their training officer, in OneFile e-portfolio. You can find further guidance on the STP Training Officer role in OneFile and in the STP Trainers section.
Qualifications
Essential | Master’s level qualification or equivalent |
Desirable | Formal training qualification |
Mitigation | If there is no suitable qualified individual in the department, this will jeopardise the possibility of accreditation. However, it may be possible to remedy this by involving a qualified individual from elsewhere e.g. a medic, to take an active role in training. This would have to be formalised and would be reviewed case by case. |
Registration
Essential | Appropriate registration |
Desirable | Registered Clinical Scientist |
Mitigation | n/a |
Knowledge and understanding
Essential |
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Desirable | Familiarity with other related scientific specialties |
Mitigation | n/a |
Seniority
Essential | Band 7 or above |
Desirable | Line manager for staff other than trainee |
Mitigation | If the training officer is not a line manager, or has been in a Band 7 or above scientist role for less than three years, he/she must be supervised by a more senior manager in the exercise of training officer responsibilities. There should be a document setting out the supervision arrangements, and this should be submitted as part of the approval process.
If the training officer does not have experience of postgraduate research, the department should identify an individual with this experience who will be available to support the trainee during the research project. |
Experience
Essential |
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Desirable |
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Mitigation | If the training officer is not a line manager, or has been in a Band 7 or above scientist role for less than three years, he/she must be supervised by a more senior manager in the exercise of training officer responsibilities. There should be a document setting out the supervision arrangements, and this should be submitted as part of the approval process.
If the training officer does not have experience of postgraduate research, the department should identify an individual with this experience who will be available to support the trainee during the research project. |
Training
Essential | Has attended the STP Train the Trainer event or has committed to do so |
Desirable | Has received training within the Trust or elsewhere in: supporting workplace learners; mentoring; having difficult conversations; giving feedback |
Mitigation | If the training officer has not yet received the training listed, the Trust should undertake to provide it. Written evidence of the commitment should be supplied. |
Personal attributes
Essential |
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Desirable | Generous with time |
Mitigation | If the training officer cannot demonstrate the essential or desirable attributes, the department must ensure there is support. This is especially important in case any pastoral support is needed for the trainee. Clear arrangements must be in place for this. |
Support
Essential |
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Desirable |
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Mitigation | n/a |