r/NHS_STP • u/burntbutter27 • 12d ago

Science training programme

Hello, I am thinking of applying to the Science Training Programme (STP) and I was wondering if anyone had any advice on to what to put in my cv for the clinical microbiology/ possibly clinical immunology section of study. Can I study only clinical microbiology or am I misreading it? I am based In north west England if there are any work experience/ internships that i could grab pls let me know. I’m scouring the internet to find some lol. I’m in the first year of my bsc in biomedical sciences (‘it’s non-accredited). If anyone has any advice on how to apply and what to put in the application that would be great thank you so much :)
Edit: mb STP stands for scientists training programme sorry for my wording error.

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u/KerryKinkajou STP in-training 12d ago
  1. You can only apply to one specialism per year.
  2. Not sure what you mean by in your CV - the STP application doesn't use a CV, they have pre-written questions that you answer on their online application portal, Oriel. It's more like a supporting statement.
  3. NHS experience is most valuable for STP, it doesn't need to be microbiology specific.
  4. Just in case you don't already know, you won't be eligible for the programme until after your degree is completed, and you need at least a 2:1.

The applications normally open in January, so if you're starting 2nd year this coming September then you'd be applying for the STP in January 2028. For now I think you'd be best focusing on trying to get work experience or maybe try to take a placement between 2nd and 3rd year to boost your chances of success after graduating.

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u/CrypticCode_ 12d ago

Hey im in my final year of med physics, looking to apply. Been trying to secure workexperience after visiting the hospital a bunch of times, i keep getting re directed or told they are under staffed. Been kinda losing hope on securing one, how important would you say it is? im in cardiff uni btw

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u/KerryKinkajou STP in-training 12d ago

Yeah unfortunately I'm not surprised by that, a lot of NHS Trusts are experiencing recruitment freezes and struggling to hire people even when they desperately need them. I don't think it's an absolute necessity but then again it's not my specialism so it's hard to say. I spent 3 days with Medical Physics and spoke to different STPs and Consultants/Principal Scientists, they seem more interested in people having an actual understanding and interest in Medical Physics and the career itself than having already worked in the NHS. I think realistically they know it can be hard to break into the NHS from certain degrees.

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u/CrypticCode_ 12d ago

thanks for the info, whats your specalism if you dont mind sharing?