| 13 March 2025
In any occupation, there is a critical need for clear and consistent standards to ensure that workers are equipped with the right skills and knowledge to carry out their roles effectively, and healthcare is no different. Being a highly regulated and fast-evolving sector, it’s essential that healthcare workers have up-to-date and relevant skills to provide safe and effective care.
National Occupational Standards explained
National Occupational Standards (NOS) are statements of the standards of performance an individual must achieve when carrying out functions in the workplace, together with specifications of the underpinning knowledge and understanding. They focus not only on what a person needs to be able to do, but also on what they must know and understand to work effectively. NOS cover the key activities within an occupation and the circumstances the job holder is likely to encounter.
In order to use NOS branding, all NOS must be developed in line with the quality criteria developed by the UK Standards & Frameworks Panel which operates on behalf of the Devolved Governments of Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales and then approved in accordance with the four-nation quality assurance process.
Each NOS includes a set of agreed knowledge, understanding, and performance criteria that must be met before someone can be deemed competent. They represent the minimum standard to which an individual is expected to be able to complete a work function.
NOS can be used in several ways. For example:
- Awarding organisations can use them to create qualifications that train individuals for a job.
- Employers can use them to create job descriptions for recruitment or design training plans to develop staff skills.
- Individuals can research various jobs and match their own skills and experience to the requirements of different roles.
Why are National Occupational Standards Important in healthcare?
For employers
- Clear job expectations: NOS help employers outline the expectations for each role. By defining what competences are needed, employers can ensure that new recruits meet the demands of the job. NOS provide an easy reference point to assess employee performance, skill gaps, and areas for development.
- Tailored training and development: With a clear understanding of the skills and knowledge required for each role, employers can develop training programmes that are more targeted and effective. NOS support organisations to create role-specific learning and development opportunities that enhance employees’ abilities and support career progression.
- Enhanced recruitment: By aligning job descriptions to NOS, employers can identify the precise competences needed for a role and recruit individuals who meet those criteria. This leads to higher quality candidates and better job fit, reducing turnover and enhancing workforce stability.
For employees
- Clear career pathways: NOS help employees understand the expectations for their roles and can provide a framework for career development. They highlight the competences required for advancement, helping employees take charge of their professional growth. Employees can set realistic career goals and identify the training needed to achieve them.
- Improved job performance: By aligning their skills with the relevant NOS, employees can ensure they are meeting the standards required. This, in turn, leads to improved performance, better job satisfaction, and increased confidence in their abilities.
- Recognition of skills: NOS are a great way for employees to demonstrate their expertise and capabilities. Many qualifications, and training programmes are informed by NOS, allowing employees to showcase their skills and gain formal recognition for their competence.
Summary
Whether you’re an employer looking to streamline your recruitment and development processes, or an employee eager to progress in your career, NOS offer a comprehensive and reliable framework to help guide you. By promoting consistency, enhancing job performance, and fostering professional growth, NOS help create a healthcare workforce that is skilled, competent, and able to navigate the complexities of the sector.
Our work with National Occupational Standards
At Skills for Health, we’re dedicated to ensuring that the healthcare workforce is equipped with the necessary skills to deliver high-quality care. As a result, we work closely with industry experts, employers, and professional bodies to develop and maintain NOS for the health sector.
Find out more about NOS today by getting in contact with us today.