NDTP National Supernumerary Flexible Training Scheme.

The National Doctor’s Training and Planning Unit (NDTP) has recently launched the 2021-2022 intake for the HSE National Supernumerary Flexible Training Scheme.

The scheme facilitates NCHDs on a training scheme to continue their training in a flexible manner for a set period of time. Trainees must be enrolled in a training programme under the auspices of one of the postgraduate medical training bodies recognised by the Medical Council in Ireland. Flexible training posts had previously been 50% of full time, but NDTP can consider arrangements outside of that percentage, depending on circumstances. 

Applications may be made for flexible training by all trainees excluding 1st year BST. This scheme is not recommended for final year trainees however this is at the discretion of the relevant Training Body. Such applicants may apply for flexible training prior to commencing their next stage of training.

All applicants must have well founded individual reasons for flexible training. Applications for flexible training in order to pursue other paid work, paid non-medical interests or to engage in research will not be considered by NDTP. The most common reasons to date for individual trainees making an application to the National Flexible Training Scheme include:

• Responsibility for caring for others (e.g. children or elderly relatives)
• Personal family circumstances
• Health reasons
• Other personal circumstances

Flexible training posts will be assigned for the period July to July each year, in line with the training year. Applications for flexible training may be made for the following training year from August 31st 2020 until 20^th December 2020. Applicants will be notified of the outcome of their application for the scheme in February 2021.

19^th August 2020