Overseas Recruitment – Welcoming applications from overseas and the EEA

International Nurse Recruitment at Cambridge University Hospitals

Since April 2017 we have welcomed over 500 nurses from Europe and Overseas to the CUH team.

CUH is proud to recruit nurses internationally and has been travelling all around the world for approximately 10 years to meet passionate, caring nurses who are willing to make the life changing decision to move to the UK. We have a dedicated team of staff working directly with these nurses, from greeting them on arrival to the hospital, to orientating them on what life will be like living in the UK, to supporting them through the NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council) process to gain their registration. Senior nurses from CUH have attended many recruitment campaigns in countries such as the Philippines, India and Dubai.

As a Trust we have evolved and continued to develop our recruitment processes to ensure we are following the NMC Guidelines as they have reformed. International nurses can apply to be on the NMC register, providing they meet its standards. The NMC will compare the training in the nurses home country with that required in the UK.

The requirements for registration are different for nurses who trained in the UK and EEA to those who trained outside the UK and EEA.

To find out more information about seeking NMC registration follows the link to the NMC website.

We strive to ensure that our new arrivals feel welcomed to the UK and to CUH. We currently offer financial support for their first month’s rent as well as providing onsite accommodation for up to three months. We also provide a welcome pack with bedding, crockery and cutlery to help you settle in your first few weeks.

For more information about working with CUH from overseas, please contact the CUH Careers Team on 01223 217038

At Cambridge University Hospitals, the Clinical Education Support team provide a detailed induction, followed by 11 weeks preparation for your OSCE (Objective Structured Clinical Examination) examination. During this first 11 weeks you will be working clinically which will help you build your confidence in your new environment. You will be provided allocated study time to undertake the OSCE preparation programme.

Each nurse is given an OSCE study guide to support them with their learning. At the end of the five week programme, all nurses are offered one to one sessions with one of the Clinical Education Facilitators to consolidate their knowledge and put the finishing touches to their return demonstrations that they will be presenting at one of the OSCE test centres.

The NMC Test of Competence Part 2 is more commonly known as the Objective Structured Clinical Examination (OSCE). This is your final part in your journey to become a Registered Nurse in the United Kingdom.

Part one – A computer based multiple-choice examination which will be accessible in many countries around the world for applicants to access in their home countries.

Part two – A practical objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) which will always be held in the UK.

The preparation programme combines theory and practice within the class room environment. We offer mini mock exams throughout and in week 8, you will undertake a Mock OSCE prior to attending your exam.

The Clinical Education Support team is not only here to support your exam preparation. We understand how challenging it is coming to a new country to live and work, we are here to support you every step of your journey. Pastoral care and your well being is of paramount importance to us. CUH embraces equality and diversity, a wonderful environment to start and develop your career in the United Kingdom.

We have a large community of nurses who have undertaken the OSCE and celebrate an overall pass rate of 99.5%.

Recruiting Nurses trained in the EEA

Nurses who trained in the EEA must also meet the standards of the NMC before they can be considered for registration. The NMC will compare the training in your country with that required in the UK. Following the recognition of qualification, and before entry to the register, all applicants are required to supply evidence that they have the necessary knowledge of English. Communication is defined as speaking, reading, listening and writing.

Mignon came to CUH from the Philippines in May 2016 and undertook the OSCE preparation programme.

“The knowledge, skills and support that CUH has provided me with, and my fellow colleagues from overseas, has been invaluable. I have been encouraged to pursue career opportunities and continue my development in a diverse and highly specialised area. From the tailored OSCE programme and individual support, to continuous professional development, CUH has inspired me to follow my dreams, leading me into my current role as HPB specialist support nurse”.

“With unceasing encouragement and vast opportunities, CUH provides a robust support programme to enable you to settle into your new role and fulfill your dreams.”