"Every great journey begins with a single step.

Let this clinical

attachment be your first stride towards a fulfilling career in the
NHS”

Welcome to Career Pro, where we are dedicated to guiding international medical

graduates (IMGs) in achieving their career aspirations within the NHS. We recognize the
unique challenges IMGs face, from securing clinical attachments to crafting impactful job
applications that meet the NHS’s rigorous standards. Our services are designed to provide
comprehensive support, tailored to meet the needs of IMG doctors at each stage of their
journey.

Securing Clinical Attachments

We begin by assisting IMGs in securing clinical attachments within the NHS—a crucial first
step toward understanding the UK healthcare system, gaining hands-on experience, and
building professional connections. Our team works closely with candidates to match them
with clinical settings that align with their career goals and areas of interest. From
navigating the application process to preparing for orientation, we ensure that IMG
doctors are well-prepared and positioned to make the most of their attachment
experience. Through our guidance, candidates learn to excel in these roles, showcasing
their potential and gaining the confidence they need to move forward in the NHS.

Post-Exam Career Support: Job Application Review and Rewriting

Once IMGs have passed the required exams, we continue our support by focusing on the
next essential step—securing an NHS role. We know that a well-crafted job application
can be the difference between standing out or being overlooked, so we offer thorough
reviews and rewrites that highlight each candidate’s clinical skills, achievements, and
adaptability. Our team of experts understands NHS expectations and helps IMGs tailor
their CVs, cover letters, and personal statements to effectively communicate their
strengths. We work collaboratively to emphasize each candidate’s NHS experience,
professional values, and potential contributions to healthcare teams, ultimately helping
them make a memorable impression.

At Career Pro, our mission is to empower IMG doctors with the tools, insights, and support they
need to establish fulfilling careers in the NHS. We are committed to making the transition
smooth, successful, and aligned with each candidate’s professional aspirations, helping IMGs
thrive in the UK healthcare system and achieve long-term success.

Contact Us: [email protected]

Welcome to Your NHS Clinical Attachment
Purpose of Clinical Attachments

Clinical attachments offer international medical graduates (IMGs) a valuable

opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the NHS, a renowned healthcare system
with unique standards and practices. For IMGs, an attachment isn’t just an
observational role—it’s a chance to:

Understand the NHS’s approach to patient care.

Learn about UK medical protocols and healthcare practices.
Establish yourself within an NHS team, making it easier to transition to a paid
role.

While a clinical attachment doesn’t guarantee a job, it allows you to demonstrate

your skills, commitment, and compatibility with NHS values. Throughout this
attachment, you’ll observe, learn, and potentially even participate in various clinical
settings. This experience helps establish a foundation that can make you a strong
candidate for future NHS roles.

What This Handbook Will Cover

This guide is designed to help you make the most of your clinical attachment by
offering practical strategies to:

Enhance Learning: Approaches to learning effectively in a new system, so you

can pick up UK-specific practices efficiently.
Build Strong Professional Relationships: Guidance on forming connections
that could support your future job applications.
Stand Out: Tips on making a positive, lasting impression on your team and
supervisors.
Prepare for NHS Employment: Steps to leverage your clinical attachment for a
future NHS role, including CV tips, networking advice, and interview
preparation.

By following the advice in this handbook, you’ll be better equipped to navigate your
attachment successfully and make it a stepping stone toward a role in the NHS.
Understanding the NHS System and Culture
NHS Structure and Values
The NHS, established in 1948, is one of the world’s largest publicly funded health services. Its
core values emphasize patient-centered care, respect, integrity, and continuous improvement.
Understanding these values and reflecting them in your behaviour will make you a stronger
candidate for future employment.

Key NHS Values:

1. Compassion and Respect: Treat all patients and colleagues with empathy and dignity.
2. Commitment to Quality of Care: Strive for excellence in every task, from routine
observations to complex patient care.
3. Improving Lives: The NHS values innovation and continuous improvement. Showing a
commitment to quality improvement (QI) initiatives can set you apart.
4. Everyone Counts: Inclusivity and teamwork are essential; all members of the team—from
doctors to nurses to administrative staff—play critical roles in delivering care.

NHS Organizational Hierarchy

The NHS is a team-oriented environment with a clear hierarchy. Here’s a basic rundown to help
you understand the roles and where you might fit in during your clinical attachment:

Consultants: Senior doctors responsible for leading teams and making clinical decisions.
Registrars: Doctors in advanced specialty training, who work closely with consultants and
often mentor juniors.
Junior Doctors: Trainees at various stages of training, handling most direct patient
interactions and reporting to senior doctors.
Allied Health Professionals (AHPs): Nurses, physiotherapists, radiographers, pharmacists,
and others who contribute to comprehensive patient care.

Cultural Insights and Patient Care Norms

Adjusting to the NHS culture may require you to adapt to new communication styles, work
processes, and patient interactions. In the UK:

Patient-Centered Communication: NHS practitioners are encouraged to listen to patients’

concerns and involve them in decisions about their care.
Equality and Diversity: The NHS treats patients from all backgrounds equally, and cultural
sensitivity is vital.
Collaborative Teamwork: Respectful communication and collaboration with all team
members, regardless of their title, is essential for effective care.
Setting Personal Goals for Your Attachment
Defining Your Career Goals
To maximize your clinical attachment, it’s helpful to identify your
objectives early on. Whether your goal is to enhance your clinical skills,
understand the NHS system, or network for job opportunities, having clear
objectives will help you stay focused and productive.

1. Skill-Building: What specific clinical skills or knowledge areas do you

want to strengthen?
2. Networking: Are you looking to build relationships that could support
a future job search?
3. Clinical Acclimatization: If your goal is to gain familiarity with the
NHS, focus on understanding UK-specific protocols and guidelines.

Creating an Action Plan

With your goals in mind, create a simple action plan:

Set Daily and Weekly Objectives: Break down your larger goals into
daily and weekly tasks, like observing a particular procedure or
speaking with a specific team member.
Track Your Progress: Maintain a journal or log to document your
achievements and any feedback received.
Reflect and Adjust: Regularly review your goals and adjust your plan
based on your experiences and feedback from your supervisors.

Establishing and following an action plan will ensure that you make
tangible progress and can demonstrate your growth by the end of your
attachment.
Becoming an Integrated Team Member
Making a Positive First Impression
The first impression you make with your team can set the tone for your entire attachment. NHS
teams value professionals who are proactive, approachable, and respectful. Here’s how to start
on the right foot:

1. Professional Introduction: Introduce yourself confidently to each team member. Briefly

explain your role and objectives, but keep it concise and professional.
2. Observe and Adapt: Take time to understand team dynamics and observe how team
members interact. This will help you align your communication style to match the team’s
tone.
3. Show Respect for Everyone’s Role: Whether you’re interacting with consultants, nurses, or
administrative staff, treat each person with the same level of respect. In the NHS, every role
contributes to patient care.

Consistent Punctuality and Preparedness

Your punctuality and preparedness demonstrate respect for the team’s time and commitment to
the role.

Arrive Early: Aim to arrive a few minutes early each day to get settled and ready to begin.
This allows you to review any relevant patient notes or procedures for the day.
Bring Necessary Materials: Have a notebook, pen, and any clinical references you may
need. Keeping organized shows that you are prepared and taking your attachment seriously.
Stay Engaged: Listen carefully to handovers, and don’t hesitate to ask questions when
appropriate. Showing genuine interest will set you apart.

Getting to Know Your Team

Understanding your team’s structure and each person’s responsibilities is key to becoming an
active, valued member.

Identify Key Team Members: Note who the senior and junior doctors are, as well as allied
health professionals like nurses, physiotherapists, and pharmacists.
Be Observant of Roles and Workflow: Observe each team member’s daily responsibilities
and how they interact with one another. This will help you understand how to work
seamlessly within the team.
Support Where Possible: If you notice a way to assist without interfering (e.g., fetching
supplies or taking notes during rounds), do so. Being helpful and proactive reinforces your
presence as a valued team member.
Demonstrating Initiative in Clinical Settings
Ward Rounds and Clinical Observations
Ward rounds provide a unique opportunity to observe the full cycle of patient
care and demonstrate your clinical understanding.

Active Observation: Pay close attention during rounds. Note how the
team assesses patients, manages cases, and communicates care plans.
Ask Insightful Questions: Choose appropriate moments to ask questions
that demonstrate your understanding and willingness to learn. For
example, you might ask about the rationale behind a treatment plan or the
steps in a particular procedure.
Offer Brief Contributions: If you’re comfortable, offer relevant
observations on cases you’ve studied, showing that you’ve prepared and
can contribute thoughtfully.

Engagement in MDT Meetings

Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) meetings are where patient cases are discussed
among various healthcare providers to create comprehensive care plans.

Come Prepared: Review any patient cases being discussed and

familiarize yourself with their history.
Take Notes and Observe: Document each team member’s perspective
and the considerations they bring to the table. This helps you learn the
decision-making process in NHS settings.
Showcase Understanding: If asked to contribute, share observations that
align with the team’s goals, showing that you understand the patient’s
journey and NHS practices.
Showcasing Leadership in Small Ways
Taking Charge in Teaching
In the NHS, teaching is a valued skill. By volunteering to assist or lead teaching
sessions, you demonstrate both initiative and commitment to medical
education.

Volunteer for Teaching: Express interest in leading or co-leading sessions

for medical students. This shows that you are eager to share knowledge
and help others learn.
Prepare Thoroughly: Approach teaching sessions with the same
professionalism as patient care. Prepare content that is clear, concise, and
relevant, and be open to questions.
Engage with Learners: Encourage interaction and check for
understanding. This builds rapport and underscores your commitment to
effective teaching.

Leading a Project
Taking on a project, such as an audit or Quality Improvement Project (QIP), is a
proactive way to show initiative and align with NHS goals of continuous
improvement.

Identify Project Opportunities: Look for areas within the department that
may benefit from improvement, such as efficiency, patient outcomes, or
adherence to guidelines.
Suggest a QIP or Audit: Approach your supervisor to propose a simple
QIP or audit. Frame it as a learning opportunity that could also benefit the
department.
Document Your Work: Keep thorough records of your project’s progress,
as this can be useful in job applications and interviews.
Building Professional Relationships and Networks
Fostering Genuine Connections

Building meaningful relationships within the NHS can support your

future job search and help you integrate into NHS culture.

Show Interest in Colleagues: Engage in conversations that go

beyond work. Showing genuine interest in your colleagues'
backgrounds and experiences can build rapport.
Seek Mentorship: Identify consultants or registrars who you
admire and ask for their guidance. They may be able to offer
career advice or serve as references.
Respect and Value All Team Members: In the NHS, every role is
vital to patient care. Take time to build rapport with nurses, allied
health professionals, and administrative staff, as these
relationships can greatly enhance your experience.

The Importance of Listening and Learning

Active listening is an invaluable skill, especially when you’re in a new

environment.

Listen More Than You Speak: Focus on understanding the team’s

workflow, expectations, and patient care practices. This shows
respect and a willingness to adapt.
Be Open to Learning from Everyone: You can learn as much from
junior doctors, nurses, and allied health staff as from consultants.
Everyone brings a unique perspective and skill set to the team.
Engaging with HR and Supervisors Strategically
Staying on HR’s Radar
HR is instrumental in NHS recruitment, so it’s wise to stay in regular
communication about potential opportunities.

Professional Follow-Ups: Periodically check in with HR regarding

upcoming vacancies, but remain respectful and avoid excessive
follow-ups.
Express Enthusiasm and Availability: Let HR know that you’re open
to opportunities within the NHS and available for positions matching
your skills.
Stay Updated on Job Postings: Ask about email notifications or
check job boards regularly to remain informed of open positions.

Requesting Constructive Feedback

Feedback helps you understand your strengths and areas for
improvement, showing your supervisors that you are committed to growth.

Ask for Specific Feedback: Request input on both your clinical

knowledge and interpersonal skills. Be open to any suggestions they
offer.
Implement Feedback Quickly: Show that you’re adaptable by
making noticeable changes in response to feedback. This will reinforce
your commitment to NHS standards.
Thank Supervisors for Their Insights: Appreciation for feedback is a
professional courtesy that leaves a positive impression.
Embracing Learning Opportunities
Observing and Asking Questions
Observation is a key part of learning in any clinical setting, but it’s most effective when
combined with insightful questions and an eagerness to understand. Here’s how to make
the most of your observations:

1. Prepare in Advance: Familiarize yourself with the cases and clinical conditions of
patients you’ll be observing. This helps you ask targeted questions that demonstrate
forethought and clinical curiosity.
2. Observe with Purpose: Focus on how each member of the team approaches patient
care and decision-making. Take mental notes on techniques, communication styles,
and workflow.
3. Ask Thoughtful Questions: When appropriate, ask questions that go beyond the
basics—this could involve asking about the rationale behind treatment choices or how
similar cases have been managed. Avoid interrupting, and wait for suitable moments
to speak.

Taking Initiative with Extra Tasks

Finding ways to contribute beyond your assigned tasks helps reinforce your value to the
team. Here are a few ideas:

Offer to Assist with Administrative Duties: In some situations, you may be able to
help by managing patient documentation, organizing case notes, or assisting with
administrative tasks. This kind of support, while simple, can be greatly appreciated by
busy team members.
Contribute to Protocol Compliance: If you notice an opportunity to help the team
adhere to protocols (e.g., infection control measures, patient privacy guidelines),
politely offer assistance. This shows that you’re observant, proactive, and committed
to high standards of care.
Show a Willingness to Learn and Help: Be open to taking on minor tasks that might
seem routine but are critical to the smooth running of the department. For example,
you might volunteer to help during busy shifts, fetch equipment, or handle small
requests from team members.
Becoming a ‘Go-To’ Person in the Team
Demonstrating Reliability and Flexibility
Reliability and flexibility are key traits that NHS teams value. When you prove
yourself as dependable, your supervisors and colleagues will see you as someone
they can trust and rely on.

Show Up and Follow Through: If you commit to a task or project, make sure
you complete it on time and to the best of your ability. This builds your
reputation as someone who takes responsibility seriously.
Embrace Adaptability: Be willing to adapt to changes in schedule, tasks, or
even the team’s needs. NHS teams appreciate members who can handle shifts
in routine with a positive attitude.
Stay Calm Under Pressure: In a fast-paced environment like the NHS, there
will inevitably be moments of stress. Demonstrating a calm, level-headed
approach to pressure can set you apart as a resilient and reliable presence.

Volunteer for Extra Shifts or Duties

Taking on additional responsibilities (within reason) can enhance your visibility and
demonstrate your dedication.

Offer to Cover Shifts: If appropriate, offer to cover for team members who
may need a break or assist during busier shifts. This is a straightforward way to
show flexibility and support for the team.
Take Initiative in Patient Interaction: With your supervisor’s permission,
volunteer to assist in patient communication. For instance, you might offer to
explain treatment plans or follow up on patient questions.
Use Downtime Productively: If you find yourself with extra time, ask team
members if there’s anything you can help with, such as patient charting,
preparing materials, or organizing equipment. These small tasks can make a big
difference to the team’s efficiency.
Documenting Your Experience for Job Applications

Keeping a Reflective Log

Keeping a log or journal during your attachment can be incredibly valuable for
both personal growth and future job applications. In this log, document:

Cases Observed: Note interesting cases, diagnoses, and treatment plans,

particularly those that enhanced your learning.
Skills Practiced: List any new skills you’ve practised, procedures you’ve
observed, or tasks you were involved in. Include specific details to help you
recall your progress.
Feedback Received: Record any feedback given by your supervisors and
reflect on how you adapted based on this input.

Showcasing Achievements
Highlighting your accomplishments can strengthen your CV and provide useful
talking points during interviews. When documenting your achievements:

Quantify Your Impact Where Possible: If you contributed to a project or

assisted in an audit, specify your role, the outcome, and any measurable
impact (e.g., “Contributed to a quality improvement project that reduced
average patient wait times by 10%”).
List Projects and Audits: Record any Quality Improvement Projects (QIPs),
audits, or other initiatives you took part in, noting the objectives, your role,
and the results.
Focus on Growth and Learning: Emphasize how your attachment
experience has prepared you for a role in the NHS, including the skills
gained, cultural adjustments made, and adaptability demonstrated.
Preparing for the Next Step
Understanding the Pathway to NHS Employment
Transitioning from a clinical attachment to an NHS role involves understanding the
specific requirements for IMG doctors. Here’s a basic roadmap:

GMC Registration: Make sure your General Medical Council (GMC)

registration is complete, as this is essential for NHS employment. The GMC also
provides resources for IMGs, which can help in understanding the expectations
and requirements for NHS roles.
NHS Job Application Process: Familiarize yourself with NHS job portals and
application formats. Be prepared to complete a detailed application, which will
typically require a structured CV, a cover letter, and potentially supporting
documentation.
Highlighting Relevant Experience: Structure your CV to emphasize your NHS
attachment, relevant medical experience, and any NHS-specific knowledge or
skills gained.

Following Up on Your Attachment

Even after your attachment ends, maintaining professional connections with your
team can support your job search.

Stay in Touch with Colleagues and Supervisors: Send a courteous follow-up

message to thank your supervisors and team members for their guidance.
Consider requesting a reference if you feel your performance was positively
received.
Ask for Recommendations: If your attachment involved close mentorship or
regular feedback, ask your supervisor if they’d be willing to write a
recommendation for future job applications.
Express Your Interest in Future Roles: Politely mention your interest in future
NHS roles if they become available. This reminds the team of your aspirations
and helps keep you on their radar for upcoming opportunities.
Showcasing Your Clinical Attachment on Your CV
Structuring Your NHS CV
When applying for NHS roles, it’s crucial to structure your CV in a way that
emphasizes your clinical attachment experience and NHS-specific skills.

Personal Statement: Begin with a brief personal statement summarizing

your experience, motivation, and goals. Highlight that you’ve completed an
NHS clinical attachment, showing your familiarity with NHS practices.
Core Competencies and Skills: List key competencies you developed
during your attachment, such as patient communication, teamwork, and
knowledge of UK healthcare protocols.
Professional Experience: Include your clinical attachment under
“Professional Experience.” Specify your department, location, and time
frame, and detail your main responsibilities and achievements.
Key Achievements: Use bullet points to showcase significant
accomplishments, such as contributions to QIPs, instances where you
demonstrated initiative or areas where you received positive feedback.

Highlighting Relevant Skills and Attributes

Align your skills with NHS values and requirements. Focus on these key areas:

Patient-Centered Communication: Describe your experience

communicating with patients in an empathetic, culturally sensitive manner.
Teamwork and Collaboration: Highlight your ability to work effectively
within multidisciplinary teams.
Adaptability and Resilience: Mention specific instances where you
adapted to challenges or remained resilient in demanding situations.
Preparing for NHS Job Interviews
Understanding NHS Interview Expectations
NHS interviews often assess both your clinical expertise and alignment with NHS values.
Understanding these expectations will help you prepare more effectively:

Competency-Based Questions: NHS interviews frequently use competency-based

questions to assess specific skills. Prepare examples that demonstrate competencies
like teamwork, problem-solving, and patient care.
Situational Judgement: Be prepared to discuss how you would handle specific
scenarios, such as difficult patient interactions or ethical dilemmas. Draw on your
clinical attachment experience to showcase your understanding of NHS values.
Personal Reflection: NHS interviews often include questions about self-awareness,
so be ready to discuss your strengths, areas for improvement, and what you’ve
learned from your attachment.

Using the STAR Method for Interview Answers

The STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) helps structure responses to
competency-based questions. Here’s how to apply it:

1. Situation: Briefly explain the context of the situation.

2. Task: Describe the challenge or goal.
3. Action: Detail the steps you took, focusing on your role and thought process.
4. Result: Conclude with the outcome, emphasizing positive impacts or what you
learned.

Common NHS Interview Questions

Here are some examples of NHS interview questions and tips for answering them:

“Tell us about a time you demonstrated teamwork.” Describe a specific instance

from your attachment where you collaborated with colleagues. Emphasize your ability
to work within the NHS’s team-based culture.
“How do you handle feedback?” Share a time when you received constructive
feedback during your attachment and adapted based on it. This demonstrates a
growth mindset.
“What did you learn from your clinical attachment experience?” Discuss key
takeaways that relate to NHS values, such as patient-centred care,cultural sensitivity.
Building a Professional Network and Leveraging
References
Staying Connected with Your Clinical Attachment Team
Maintaining connections with colleagues and supervisors from your attachment can
support your job search. Here’s how to stay in touch professionally:

Send a Thank-You Message: At the end of your attachment, express your gratitude
to supervisors and team members for their guidance. A simple thank-you message
shows appreciation and leaves a positive impression.
Request LinkedIn Connections: If appropriate, connect with colleagues on LinkedIn.
This can expand your professional network and keep you updated on potential job
opportunities.
Update Colleagues on Your Progress: Periodically reach out to keep your
connections updated on your career progress and to inquire about potential job
openings.

Asking for References

References from NHS professionals can be a valuable asset when applying for jobs. Here
are some guidelines for requesting references:

Request References from Supervisors: Choose supervisors who were closely

involved in your training and can speak to your skills and character. Politely ask if they
would be willing to provide a reference.
Provide Details on the Role: If applying for a specific role, provide your referees with
details about the job and emphasize qualities you’d like them to highlight, such as
adaptability, teamwork, or patient care.
Express Appreciation: Always thank your referees for their time and support,
showing appreciation for their contribution to your job search.

"Your journey doesn’t end here—each day is a step closer to your dreams
in the NHS. Embrace the experience, learn, and leave your mark."