NHS Procurement Graduate Training Scheme
If you have any questions please contact us at: hdft.procurementgraduates@nhs.net
Interested in joining the scheme? Click the buttons below to read some of our Graduates stories and learn more
Heather's Journey
Brayden's Journey
Olivia's Journey
Josie's Journey
Why choose the NHS Procurement Graduate Scheme?
Kick-start your career in NHS procurement with a 2-year paid graduate programme offering:
- Real NHS experience in a fast-paced, essential field
- A Level 4 Commercial Procurement & Supply Apprenticeship
- A globally recognised CIPS qualification
- NHS Band 4 salary with opportunities for progression during and after the scheme
- Opportunity to build strong networks and lasting NHS career foundations
- We value your fresh perspective and motivation to learn. Our teams will support you, mentor you, and give you the tools to succeed from day one.
Programme Highlights
| What's Included |
Details |
| Salary |
Band 4 NHS salary (plus potential uplifts) |
| Rotations |
Minimum of 2 placements in different procurement fields |
| Qualification |
Level 4 CIPS (Commercial Procurement & Supply) |
| Mentoring |
Regular support from managers, mentors and the graduate scheme team |
| Training & Development |
Skills sessions, workshops & events |
| Career Progression |
Potential to progress to higher banded roles during and after the scheme |
Take a look at the graduate brochure for more details
Key Benefits
- Band 4 NHS salary (plus location uplifts where applicable)
- Generous holiday allowance plus bank holidays
- Career progression opportunities
- NHS pension scheme – one of the most generous in the UK
- NHS discounts – access to hundreds of retail and lifestyle savings
These benefits are designed to help you build a rewarding and secure future in NHS procurement.
Your role as a Graduate
In return, the graduate scheme expectations are:
- Commit to a 2-year full-time NHS role within procurement
- Study toward your Level 4 CIPS qualification
- Complete a Level 4 Apprenticeship in Procurement & Supply
- Show curiosity, energy, and a drive to learn
- Act as a scheme and NHS ambassador
You’ll be supported every step of the way—through training, mentoring, and professional development.
How to apply
Our application process is designed to be clear, supportive, and fair. Here's what to expect:
Stage 1: Online Application
Complete an online form and upload your documents. You'll be asked to provide:
- Basic personal information
- Proof of Right to Work in the UK
- Equal opportunities & safeguarding info
- Short reasoning tests
- Responses to application questions
- CV + Degree certificate (or proof of predicted grade)
- GCSE Maths & English certificates
- Employment history
Applications are reviewed once the shortlisting process begins. You'll be notified whether you're moving to the next stage.
Stage 2: Online Interview
If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to a Microsoft Teams interview with two people from the graduate scheme team.
This is a structured conversation to assess your motivation, communication, and understanding of the programme.
Stage 3: Assessment Centre
Attend an in-person Assessment Centre. This typically includes:
- Group exercises
- Individual tasks
- Speed interviews
Successful candidates will receive an offer to join the Procurement Graduate Training Scheme shortly after the assessment centre.
Stage 4: Onboarding
Your details will be passed to the HR team at your host NHS organisation to begin onboarding.
Welcome to the start of your NHS procurement career!
“The recruitment process was open, friendly and really well organised! The assessment centre gave you opportunities to learn a lot about NHS procurement and each of the trusts. Of course I was nervous but I really enjoyed getting to know everyone!”
Graduate 2021
Have questions regarding the Procurement Graduate Training Scheme?
Contact: Procurement Graduate Team
Email: hdft.procurementgraduates@nhs.net
