Fast-track your return to nursing
Our unique, fully funded, three-week Return to Practice (RtP) programme is designed to refresh your skills, rebuild your confidence, and help you re-enter the profession you love – on your terms.
Applications for the pilot programme are now closed
We are currently reviewing the pilot and planning the next phase, so we are not accepting new applications at this time. If you have any questions, please contact returntopractice@nhsprofessionals.nhs.uk
What is the NHS Professionals fast-track Return to Practice (RtP) programme?
Our programme is a pioneering approach to supporting nurses to rejoin the NMC register. It is a test of competence and consists of a multiple-choice computer-based test (CBT) and a practical exam (OSCE).
Programme highlights
- Get your PIN in 2025 and restart your nursing career
- Fully funded 3-week programme – programme and assessment costs included
- Travel and accommodation options available
- Personalised guidance and comprehensive support – once completed, our team is available to support you (if desired) in exploring your career options and preceptorship. We’ll help you find a work pattern that aligns with your needs and family life, whether it’s through bank shifts, substantive posts, or other opportunities.
What the programme entails
Designed to provide holistic support, this programme will guide you through the Test of Competence route back to registration. You will receive expert support in preparing for the Computer-Based Test (CBT) and take part in an immersive simulated learning experience tailored to the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE) skills stations.
With hands-on practice, personalised guidance, and dedicated support, you can refine their skills and build confidence ahead of their assessments. You will then undertake two tests to demonstrate your learning.
Part 1: Computer-Based Test (CBT)
- The CBT is a multiple-choice exam.
- The test includes 120 multiple-choice questions, with answers marked as correct or incorrect (no partial credit).
- The total test duration is four hours, including any optional breaks.
- For more information download the NMC CBT Information Booklet.
Part 2: Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE)
- The OSCE is a practical assessment of nursing skills.
- It is taken after successfully passing the CBT.
- For more information download the NMC OSCE Candidate Handbook.
All our courses are facilitated by the NHS Professionals Academy. Growing knowledge, skills and careers for healthcare professionals.
Eligibility
To apply for the programme, you must:
- Have previously lapsed NMC registration as a nurse.
- Be based in England.
This programme is delivered in collaboration with and funded by NHS England.