Applicants Guide:

Certificate of Equivalence

Scientist Training

Programme

(Clinical Scientist)

Version Control

Version no. and status V14.2 Doc ref # 024

Date of Document 18.09.18_05.11.18

Distribution Public domain

Revision date March 2021

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1. Introduction

This document contains guidance on the process for making an application to the Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS) for a Certificate of Equivalence in knowledge, skills and competence commensurate with that achieved on the Scientist Training Programme (STP). It should be read in conjunction with the STP Equivalence Programme Handbook which gives details of the concept of equivalence: https://www.ahcs.ac.uk/equivalence/equivalence-guidance/.

The STP Equivalence process is made up of four stages:

1. Application, including an initial administrative check

2. Assessment of the portfolio1

3. Interview

4. Ratification and certification

The fee for the entire equivalence assessment is can be found on the Academy’s fees webpage at:

https://www.ahcs.ac.uk/the-register/for-healthcare-scientists/registration-fees/

Please note that rejected applications at the initial administrative check will incur a £50

administration fee. The full fee is non-refundable once the application has been approved for

portfolio submission.

All applicants must ensure that they have read and understood this document before submitting

their application. If you have a disability that you feel might affect your interview performance, or if

there are any questions about the process, please contact the AHCS administrators:

equivalence@ahcs.ac.uk before submitting an application.

2. Equivalence

In the context of education, training, qualifications and experience, equivalence is said to exist when

the outcomes of two processes are directly comparable, even though the paths to achieving them

are different. When equivalence is shown to exist between a new qualification and the qualification

or experience a person already has, further education or training is unnecessary.

The Equivalence process provides access to registration for individuals who have not followed a

formal Scientist Training Programme accredited by the National School of Healthcare Science.

Applicants for STP Equivalence are assessed against the standards set out in AHCS’ Good Scientific

Practice (GSP) and whether the applicant has the breadth of knowledge, skills, competence

comparable to someone who has completed the relevant accredited STP curriculum. Therefore,

when selecting the evidence to include in the portfolio, it is important that the applicant considers

the learning outcomes for the core (generic), rotation (theme) and specialist modules as set out in

1 A portfolio is made up of: a summary of training and experience, the completed GSP mapping template, and supporting documents/evidence

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the relevant STP curriculum. Applicants are not required to map their evidence to the outcomes

of the outcomes of the STP curricula.

A copy of Good Scientific Practice is available at https://www.ahcs.ac.uk/equivalence/equivalence-

guidance/

The NSHCS accredited STP curricula can be found at: https://curriculum.nshcs.org.uk/

3. Eligibility

Applicants will have a variety of relevant qualifications and experience. To make a STP Equivalence

application, applicants do not need to possess a Masters level qualification. However, the evidence

presented must demonstrate that they have a comparable level of knowledge, skills and

competence to a trainee successfully completing the Scientist Training programme.

The AHCS does not prescribe a specific length of training to confer equivalence, although applicants

should note that graduates from the Scientist Training programme complete three years of Masters

level (Level 72) education, including a minimum of 90 weeks integrated workplace training. It is

unlikely that periods of experience substantially less than this will be deemed adequate for an

application for equivalence.

It is important to note that holding a specific qualification or job title or being paid within a particular

Agenda for Change band, does not by itself provide evidence of STP Equivalence.

The Equivalence process is a form of accreditation of prior experiential and certificated learning, and

there are therefore no mechanisms (for example “grandparenting”) to gain exemption from

elements of the process. All applicants for STP Equivalence must present an analysis of their

knowledge and experience, and demonstrate how these map against the standards required by GSP.

This is done by completing the Mapping Template (see Appendix 3) as part of the portfolio

submission.

Please note, the AHCS offers equivalence against STP curriculum approved by the National School

of Healthcare Science (https://curriculum.nshcs.org.uk/), if your specialism falls outside this list,

there are two other routes to achieving equivalence which allow you to apply to the HCPC to join

their register, either as a Clinical Scientist or as a Biomedical Scientist.

These routes are offered by:

• the Association of Clinical Scientists (ACS)3 – route to ‘Clinical Scientist’; and

• the Institute of Biomedical Sciences (IBMS)4 – route to ‘Biomedical Scientist’

2 For further details about the nature of a level 7 qualification, please see the document Frameworks for Higher Education

Qualifications, published by the Quality Assurance Agency for Higher Education: http://www.qaa.ac.uk/en/Publications/Documents/qualifications-frameworks.pdf 3 ACS: http://www.assclinsci.org/acsApplicants.aspx 4 IBMS: https://www.ibms.org/registration/hcpc-registration/

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4. Overview of the STP Equivalence process

Applications for the STP Certificate of Equivalence go through four stages, progress to a next stage is

dependent on successful completion of the previous stage:

Stage 1: Application. This stage includes:

• Setting up an applicant profile

• Completing the preliminary application including, uploading initial documentation

requirements (see later)

• Payment

• Uploading the portfolio

Stage 2: Assessment of the portfolio. This stage includes:

• Review of the portfolio by a panel of assessors comprising two professional assessors

• Outcome

Stage 3: Interview. This stage includes:

• Interview with three assessors, two professional assessors plus one lay assessor. It is

normally conducted via video-conferencing5

• Outcome

Stage 4: Ratification and certification. This stage includes:

• Ratification of outcomes

• Notification to HCPC of outcome

• Certification

Note: If you have an (evidenced) recognised disability and would be disadvantaged by conducting

the interview by video-conferencing, the AHCS will arrange a face-to-face interview.

If Stage 4 Ratification has taken place, a successful applicant is eligible to apply to join HCPC’s

Register as a Clinical Scientist. You do not need a copy of your certificate to apply (see later).

Prior to submitting an application for STP Equivalence, applicants are advised to familiarise

themselves with relevant information sources including:

• STP Equivalence guidance on the AHCS website:

https://www.ahcs.ac.uk/equivalence/equivalence-guidance/

• AHCS Good Scientific Practice: https://www.ahcs.ac.uk/equivalence/equivalence-

guidance/

• NSHCS STP Training curricula: https://curriculum.nshcs.org.uk/

5 Currently using GoToMeeting: https://www.gotomeeting.com/en-gb. Note, professional assessors may dial into the GoToMeeting session. The lay assessor and applicant must be visible during the interview.

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Applicants might also benefit from discussing their intention to apply for STP Equivalence with

their line manager, mentors and colleagues, and may also wish to consult their professional body.

Plagiarism

Plagiarism is defined as ‘The practice of taking someone else's work or ideas and passing them off as

one's own’ (English Oxford Dictionary). This might take the form of: submitting someone else’s work,

word-for-word, as their own; taking significant portions of text from a single source without

alterations; changing key words and phrases but retaining the essential content of the source

(Turnitin 2018)6. The AHCS views plagiarism as both unethical and unprofessional.

While the Academy recognises that applicants might follow a similar structure for a portfolio, any

part of the application which requires original comment or thought by the applicant, such as the

personal statement, summary report and evidence submitted, must be their own work.

If instances of plagiarism are suspected or identified, they will be investigated formally by the AHCS

and may lead to a rejection of the application.

5. Detailed guidance for each stage

Applications must be made online via the AHCS website:

https://app.ahcs.ac.uk/members/register.cfm

System-generated emails are sent at various stages throughout the application process. Applicants

are advised to check their ‘junk mail’ and set email rules to ensure these emails are received.

Deadlines may be set for the different stages of the process and these will be confirmed by email.

Applicants must meet these deadlines except in exceptional circumstances, for example, illness.

Applicants who wish to extend the deadline must contact equivalence@ahcs.ac.uk at the earliest

opportunity.

Applicants can save and return to the application at any point before final submission. Applicants

should save their work regularly. Note, once ‘Submit application’ has been clicked, no part of the

application can be amended.

If you need further help - save your work and contact equivalence@ahcs.ac.uk

6 Turnitin ‘Spectrum of Plagiarism’ (2018), available at: https://www.turnitin.com/static/plagiarism-spectrum/

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Stage 1: Application and payment

Setting up an applicant profile

You will need to set up a personal profile on the AHCS online system, further details can be found in

Appendix 2.

Uploading information and documentation

Once you have selected ‘Apply for Equivalence – STP Equivalence’, you can begin to input the required

information and upload the required documentation. The following table provides details for each

section you need to complete.

Section: Upload in:

1. Personal details

All fields must be completed, and a suitable email address supplied. You can change the email address at any time.

You will also need to upload a passport sized photograph

2. Monitoring Information

This section of the application form will not be used as part of the assessment process.

You do not have to disclose your details, but please ensure that the option ‘I do not wish to disclose’ is selected.

3. Career Details

All fields should be completed.

4. Professional Membership/Registration History

Please indicate if you have had or continue to have any previous periods of registration with the AHCS or another health or social care regulatory body, or voluntary registration body either in the UK and/or overseas.

5. Your Education and Training

Please complete all fields for all qualification presented.

Note, if you list a qualification in this section, assessors will expect to see evidence of that qualification in the documents section, for example a Certificate of completion.

6. Personal Statement

The summary of professional experience should not exceed 1000 words

and should contain a description of the previous experience and duties

undertaken by the applicant. It should also contain a summary of past and

current research (including a list of relevant publications) and audit or

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service development projects. The summary must contain the names,

qualifications (including professional registration) and contact information

of the applicant's supervisors. The summary should contain sufficient

detail for the applicant to self-determine that there has been an adequate

period of supervised training in the duties and responsibilities

commensurate with a clinical scientist.

7. Documents

Qualifications

A scanned copy of relevant academic and professional qualifications should be provided

Professional References

Please provide two professional references – one of which must be from the most recent employer (see Appendix 4 below)

Disclosure and Barring Services (DBS) Certificate

Please provide a valid minimum “Basic” (or higher) level DBS check by:

• uploading a scanned copy of the DBS check;

If you do not have a valid DBS check you can request a basic disclosure from Disclosure Scotland (http://www.disclosurescotland.co.uk/basicdisclosureonline/index.htm). Please note that you do not have to be a Scottish national to do so.

Applicants from Northern Ireland should consult the AccessNI website, available here http://www.nidirect.gov.uk/accessni-criminal-record-checks. International Applicants who are unable to provide a DBS check will need to contact the AHCS.

Identification:

• a certified copy of a proof of identity (Government-issued photo ID such as a passport or driving licence). You must bring the original copy with you to the interview.

Note: A certified copy must be certified as a true copy of the original by a person of professional standing in the community. This means that the person you ask to certify your document(s) must write on it 'I certify that this is a true copy of the original document' and must sign it and print their name and professional title.

A professional person (eg a statutory registered professional for example a HCPC or GMC registered consultant, a solicitor, barrister or other legal practitioner or an accountant) will be recognised as a person of standing in the community. Other individuals, such your bank manager; a Justice of the Peace or other judicial official; a Minister of the Church, Rabbi, Imam or other recognised religious official; a Member of Parliament, Member of Scottish Parliament, Member of the Northern Ireland

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Assembly, Member of the Welsh Assembly; or an Officer in HM Armed Forces may also be a person of standing in the community.

Change in name:

Certified evidence of any change in name.

(If the change of name is detailed on a certified copy of AHCS Certificate of Attainment from UK approved PTP degree programme or Certificate of Equivalence from AHCS PTP Equivalence Programme, then no further evidence is needed other than a copy of the Certificate.)

English Language ability

If you are not a UK citizen:

Please provide a scanned copy of certification to demonstrate achievement of International English Language Testing System (IELTS) 7.0 with no element below 6.5, or a Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) Internet Based Test (IBT) minimum score of 100/120.

Or a certified declaration that English is your first language.

Evidence of successfully completing an undergraduate or postgraduate degree awarded by UK higher education provider (with degree awarding powers), and an admissions criteria of the same English language requirements as outlined above will also be considered.

8. Good character and health

Applicants are required to state whether or not they have any physical or mental health condition that would impair their fitness to practise as a clinical scientist.

If such a condition is identified, it will be reviewed by a senior member of the AHCS in keeping with the Academy’s fitness to practise requirements7. Further information from the applicant may be requested.

9. Declarations

Please read and tick the box if you accept the declarations made.

7 See section on “What is Fitness to Practise”: https://www.ahcs.ac.uk/patients-public/the-register-and-regulation/raise-a-concern/

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10. Payment:

Payment is made using the AHCS’ secure payment system. This is run by a third-party service provider GoCardless.

You will be asked to set up a Direct Debit, this will be for a single payment of the application fee.

The application fee for the STP Equivalence programme can be found at: https://www.ahcs.ac.uk/the-register/for-healthcare-scientists/registration-fees/

Once you have completed each of the ten sections, click on ‘submit’.

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Stage 1b: Uploading your portfolio

Once you have uploaded the documentation listed above and paid, and a brief administrative check

has been undertaken, you can up load your portfolio onto the system.

You have 6 months to submit your completed portfolio.

Content of the portfolio

The portfolio is the applicants’ opportunity to:

• show that they have an adequate period of supervised training in the duties and

responsibilities commensurate with a clinical scientist

• demonstrate that their knowledge, skills and competences achieved from their education

and working experience meet the standards of Good Scientific Practice and are comparable

to those of someone successfully completing an NSHCS accreditation Scientist Training

Programme

• demonstrate that they have reflected on their training, experience and practice.

The portfolio comprises:

• contents list

• a summary of relevant training and experience (see later section)

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• completed Good Scientific Mapping Template8

• supporting evidence for each standard listed. One piece of evidence can be used to

support one or more standards, but there should be a suitable variety and breadth of

evidence provided.

The portfolio:

• is assessed electronically therefore it is best if the portfolio is uploaded as a single pdf

document. The AHCS’ system allows for a maximum of three documents to be uploaded

should you be unable to load it as a single PDF

• must be your own work, or the input from other should be acknowledged. See the section

on plagiarism

• must not be longer than 150 pages in total. Portfolios less than 60 pages are unlikely to

contain sufficient evidence. Portfolios over 150 pages will be returned to the applicant

• must use a font size for text of 12 point.

• must include page numbers

• must not include any confidential data such as a patient’s name. If this such information is

visible, the portfolio will be rejected by the assessment panel and returned to the applicant

• do not photo-reduce or resize certificates or other evidence to fit more than one to a page

• if any part of the evidence is not in English, certified translations must be provided

Summary of Training and Experience

The summary should:

• provide a summary of relevant training and experience, including past and current research

(including a list of relevant publications), audit and/or service development projects

• be written in the style of a covering report

• not exceed 5000 words

• be well structured and straightforward to read

• clearly indicate how the standards within the GSP Domains are met

• include some reflection about how activities/training undertaken has contributed to

achieving the standards/competences required for a Clinical Scientist.

Each summary report will be different, but the AHCS is developing an anonymised example for each

healthcare science Division: Informatics, Life Sciences, Physical Sciences and Biomedical Engineering,

Physiological Sciences.

Good Scientific Mapping template

Applicants must upload a completed GSP mapping template (see appendix 3).

Applicants should list evidence against each standard in the GSP domains to demonstrate that they

have sufficient knowledge, skills and competence to meet the standards as a Clinical Scientist.

8 A blank mapping template (word version) can be found at: https://www.ahcs.ac.uk/equivalence/equivalence-guidance/

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The evidence must show that the applicant has personally carried out work in key areas or practice,

and not just observed it being done. Statements of attendance or participation on their own are

insufficient and must be amplified by a brief description of how the experience helped in achieving a

particular competence, or what further training might be necessary.

Remember to look at the learning outcomes in the relevant STP curriculum to ensure that the evidence

you include helps the assessors to be assured that there is equivalence with someone completing an

accredited STP programme.

Evidence should be well selected and of high quality. There is no need to provide a detailed, day-to-

day training diary or logbook, certificates of attendance for every meeting, nor the full text of any

published work, report, case study, thesis, project or essay; summaries should be provided or an

abstract page. Certificates of attendance for every meeting should NOT be included – only those that

contribute to providing sufficient evidence that a GSP standard(s) has been met.

See appendix 3 for some examples of the evidence to include.

Remember:

You can save and return to the application at any point before final submission. Applicants should

save their work regularly. Note, once ‘Submit’ has been clicked, no part of the application can be

amended.

If you need further help, save your work and contact equivalence@ahcs.ac.uk

Supporting evidence

In putting your evidence for the portfolio together, it is helpful to look at the learning outcomes in

the relevant STP curriculum, to ensure that the evidence helps the assessors to be assured that

there is equivalence with someone completing an accredited STP programme.

A common comment from assessors is that the evidence does not demonstrate that the applicant

has sufficient breadth of experience, knowledge and skills at a Theme level9, but focuses solely at the

specialist content of the STP programme. Looking at the rotation (as well as the specialist modules)

is helpful. There is no requirement to demonstrate the practical skills expected in the rotation

modules, but you should be able to demonstrate the equivalent knowledge and understanding.

9 Blood Sciences, Cardiac, Critical Care, Vascular, Respiratory and Sleep Sciences, Cellular Sciences, Clinical

Bioinformatics, Clinical Engineering, Clinical Pharmaceutical Sciences, Gastrointestinal Physiology and

Urodynamic Science, Genomic Sciences, Infection Sciences, Medical Physics, Neurosensory Sciences,

Reconstructive Science.

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Stage 2: Assessment of the portfolio.

The assessment panel:

Assessors are invited from the AHCS’ pool of professional and lay assessors.

The panel for STP Equivalence comprises two professional assessors. At least one of the

professional assessors will be from the relevant specialism and at least one will be a registered

Clinical Scientist.

Assessors are asked to declare any conflicts of interest10 they may have in relation to each

assessment.

All applications for equivalence are assessed against the standards set out in Good Scientific Practice

(GSP)11 no matter the specialism or role. The applicant must satisfy the assessors that they have the

knowledge, skills and competence associated with GSP at the Clinical Scientist level.

Assessor will review the GSP mapping template, the summary report and evidence submitted. They

first assess whether the evidence presented demonstrates that the applicant has met all of the

domains of the GSP: professional practice, scientific practice, clinical practice, research and

development and innovation, and clinical leadership.

The assessors will also consider whether the applicant has the comparable breadth of knowledge,

skills and competence to someone who has successfully completed the relevant NSHCS accredited

STP curriculum12.

Outcomes

After the assessors have reviewed the applicant’s portfolio, they will recommend one of three

possible outcomes:

I) progress to interview

II) further information/ evidence/ training is required

III) reject application

The applicant will be informed of the outcome, and feedback will be provided if either further

information/evidence/training is required, or the application is rejected.

10 As some specialties are limited in number, it is likely that an assessor might know of the applicant, in this

instance it would not be deemed a conflict of interest, unless the assessor feels they cannot undertake the

assessment fairly and impartially because of prior knowledge, a personal or close working relationship with

the applicant. There is a conflict of interest if the applicant reports directly to the assessor in the workplace.

11 Good Scientific Practice can be found at: https://www.ahcs.ac.uk/equivalence/equivalence-guidance/

12 Available at https://www.nshcs.hee.nhs.uk/curricula.

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Stage 3: Interview

The purpose of the interview is to use questions and scenarios to: assess the applicant's competence

in the workplace setting, ensure that they meet the standards set out in good scientific practice, and

that they have sufficient knowledge, skills and competence comparable to someone who has

completed the NSHCS accredited Scientist Training Programme.

The assessment panel comprised two professional assessors and one lay assessor who will chair the

panel.

The interview is normally conducted via video-conferencing13, although there may be instances

where an assessor uses tele-conference. Each interview is scheduled for 60 minutes and usually lasts

between 30 and 60 minutes.

Usually, each of the assessors will ask a number of questions covering all the GSP domains and take

some notes during the applicant’s answer. At the end of the interview, the Chair of the panel will

give the applicant an opportunity to comment. After which the applicant is asked to leave the virtual

meeting.

Assessors can recommend one of the following outcomes:

Outcome 1: Applicant has demonstrated full equivalence and should be awarded the

Certificate of Equivalence (STP).

Outcome 2: Applicant may be able to demonstrate equivalence, but further evidence is

required.

Outcome 3: Applicant has not demonstrated equivalence.

In terms of Outcome 2, the further evidence might require the applicant to gain additional

experience and/or training. Feedback will be provided to the applicant regarding the areas of

deficiency. Usually, the applicant will have to undertake a second interview.

In terms of Outcome 3, the applicant will be advised of the action to be taken. This might include

undertaking a full Scientist Training Programme. If the applicant wishes to apply for STP Equivalence

again, they must submit a new application and pay the fees again.

Stage 4: Ratification and certification

All equivalence outcomes require ratification by the AHCS’ Education and Training Committee before

the outcome can be released formally. If the committee accepts the assessors’ recommended

outcome, applicants are sent an email confirming the outcome.

If an Outcome 1 is awarded, HCPC is advised of the outcome and the applicant is eligible to apply to

join HCPC’s Clinical Scientist register. Please note, it normally takes HCPC up to 10 working days to

update their system. Once this has been done the applicant will be able to apply to join the HCPC

13 We currently use ‘GoToMeeting’: https://www.gotomeeting.com/en-gb. Note, professional assessors may dial

into the GoToMeeting session. The lay assessor and applicant must be visible during the interview.

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Register as a Clinical Scientist. The applicant does not need to have a copy of the Certificate of

Equivalence to apply to join HCPC’s register14.

Shortly after the applicant has been informed of the outcome, the AHCS will generate the applicant’s

Certificate of Equivalence (STP). An email will be sent to successful applicants when the Certificate is

available to download from the AHCS’ system.

6. Indicative timescales:

The STP equivalence process normally takes approximately six months, with each stage listed below

taking approximately 28 days. The AHCS will endeavour to progress applications as quickly as possible.

• Initial screening of application documents

• Assignment of assessors

• Portfolio assessment

• Allocation of interview date

• Interview

• Ratification and certification

7. Complaints and appeals

The AHCS has mechanisms to ensure that applicants, assessors, staff and the public have the

opportunity to participate fully in the development and improvement of services. It is expected that

all parties will take full advantage of these in making their views known through feedback.

It is recognised that there may be occasions when the applicant feels insufficient feedback has been

offered and for this reason a Complaints Procedure has been established. The Complaints Procedure

should be used when informal attempts to resolve the matter with the AHCS have not resolved an

issue. More information about the complaints process can be found at:

http://www.ahcs.ac.uk/about-us/about-the-academy-for-healthcare-science/a-z-of-academy-

policies/

Applicants also have the opportunity to appeal outcome decisions based on procedural matters

related to the Equivalence process. Appeals against judgements of assessors, ratification decisions or

other decisions made by the Education, Training and Professional Standards Committee will not be

accepted. Appeals must be made within 28 days of receipt of the outcome decision. Appeals will be

considered by a dedicated Appeals Panel and this panel may undertake an investigation including a

request for written statements or interviews as appropriate. The Appeals Panel will then summarise

their determination in a report, which will be provided to the appellant, the assessors and retained

on file by AHCS. The judgements of the Appeals Panel are final. The AHCS Appeals policy can be

found on the AHCS website: http://www.ahcs.ac.uk/equivalence/equivalence-guidance/

14 Further details about how to apply to HCPC can be found at: See http://www.hpc-uk.org/apply/

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8. Equality and diversity

The AHCS believes that excellence is achieved through recognising the positive value and

contribution of every individual. It is committed to providing an inclusive development culture in

which all individuals are:

• enabled and encouraged to participate fully;

• treated on the basis of merit, ability, and potential, with dignity and respect;

• valued for their positive contributions.

Further information on the equality and diversity policies of the AHCS can be found at:

http://www.ahcs.ac.uk/about-us/about-theacademy-for-healthcare-science/a-z-ofacademy-policies/

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Appendix 1: Abbreviations used in this guidance

AHCS Academy for Healthcare Science

CRB Criminal Record Bureau

CV Curriculum Vitae

DBS Disclosure and Barring Services

EEA European Economic Area

GSP Good Scientific Practice

HCPC Health and Care Professions Council

HCS Healthcare Science

IELTS International English Language Test System

ITB Internet Based Test

MSC Modernising Scientific Careers

NARIC National Recognition Information Centre

NSHCS National School of Healthcare Science

PSA Professional Standards Authority

SoPs Standards of Proficiency

STPE Scientist Training Programme Equivalence

TOEFL Test of English as a Foreign Language

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Appendix 2: Setting up an applicant profile

Applicants must create a personal profile on the AHCS online system, further details can be found in

appendix 1:

1. Go to https://www.ahcs.ac.uk/ and click Join the Register

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2. Click on Join the Academy Network and provide your details to sign up to the Academy

register. Complete the profile, upload a passport-size photograph and click Register

3. Once your details are registered and verified, you will be able to Log in and complete an

Application (see below).

4. Once you have signed in the first time you should see the screen below, select STP Equivalence

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If you already have an AHCS account, log in and if you do not see the screen above select Account

and select STP Equivalence.

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5. You can work through the menu above in any order, adding in the information and uploading

documentation as directed.

Remember:

You can save and return to the application at any point before final submission. Applicants should

save their work regularly. Note, once ‘Submit’ has been clicked, no part of the application can be

amended.

If you need further help, save your work and contact equivalence@ahcs.ac.uk

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Appendix 3: Additional Guidance on Evidence

The table below sets out additional guidance on evidence that may be submitted to support an

equivalence application. Please note, this is purely guidance and applicants may submit more or less

information for each domain of GSP. Any one piece of evidence can be used in support of more than

one domain or standard, but it is expected that more than one piece of evidence will be submitted

per domain.

Education, Qualifications, and Experience

Education, Qualifications and Experience

Examples of Evidence

Subject, type of course taken, date qualified and curriculum

Relevance against specialism – professional judgements and approved list

Current knowledge Examples of how applicant has maintained theoretical knowledge

Qualifications and credits Copies of qualifications Copy of NARIC certificate for applicants whose qualifications were obtained outside the UK

Employment CV and employment history Statements of supervision from appropriately qualified supervisors Employer’s reference

Domains of GSP

Domain Examples of Evidence

1 Professional Practice

1.1 Professional practice Personal references Health reference CPPD records PDP and reflective log signed by a senior scientist. Output from multi-source feedback Minutes demonstrating participation in team meetings 1.2 Probity

1.3 Working with colleagues

1.4 Training and developing others

Evidence of training that has been delivered Feedback from training sessions Witness statements Patient information or training information developed

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2 Scientific Practice

2.1 Scientific Practice Evidence of scientific and technical practice undertaken judged against the programme outcomes, the clinical experiential learning in the appropriate curriculum learning guide and the domains in GSP supported by a critical analysis of the evidence submitted Reports on placements or secondments. Project reports

2.2 Technical Practice

2.3 Quality Review and development of standard operating procedures Participation in audit Participation in appropriate quality management systems

3 Clinical Practice

3.1 Clinical Practice Evidence of clinical practice undertaken judged against the programme outcomes, the clinical experiential learning in the appropriate curriculum learning guide and the domains in GSP supported by a critical analysis of the evidence submitted. Case studies in which the applicant has been directly involved Evidence of advice/interpretation given to clinical staff Evidence of effective reports Witness statement

3.2 Investigation and Reporting

4 Research, Development and Innovation

4.1 Research, Development and Innovation

Evidence of undertaking and disseminating research, novel service development or innovation Peer reviewed publications Presentations/posters at scientific meetings Undertaking a research degree (PhD and Professional Doctorates)

5 Scientific and Clinical Leadership

5.1 Leadership Personal and employer references

Output from multi-source feedback

CV

Witness statements

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Appendix 4: Guidance for Referees

An equivalence application must be accompanied by two professional references, normally two of

the applicant’s supervisors, one of which must be from the most recent employer.

In preparing the reference, referees will find it helpful to review:

• the domains of Good Scientific Practice (GSP)

o Domain 1: Professional practice

o Domain 2: Scientific practice

o Domain 3: Clinical practice

o Domain 4: Research, development and innovation

o Domain 5: Clinical leadership

• a copy of the relevant Scientist Training Programme (STP) curriculum

Applicants are assessed against the standards set out in the GSP domains, in the context of the STP

Training curriculum for their particular speciality. The requirement is that the applicant can

demonstrate clinical competence and a level of specialist scientific knowledge commensurate with

an individual completing a relevant NSHSC accredited Scientist Training Programme.

The line manager (or other appropriate senior colleague) is asked to confirm:

• the applicant’s current duties and responsibilities

• that the applicant has undergone an appropriate/adequate period of supervised training in

the duties and responsibilities of a clinical scientist and/or is working at the appropriate

clinical scientist level

Both referees are asked to confirm:

• the context in which they are writing the reference – for example as a line manager, or

supervisor, colleague

• how long they have known the applicant

• the applicant’s professional abilities, skills, knowledge and competences

• whether they support the application.

Referees must also provide the following information about themselves:

• their highest educational and professional qualifications, current position and place of work

• their position and place of work when the applicant was working with them

• their HCPC/GMC registration number if applicable.

• contact information, including email

The reference must be presented on official headed paper from the referee’s organisation.

When completed the reference should be sent to the applicant who will upload this onto

the AHCS system. There is no need for referees to liaise with the AHCS directly.

.

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Appendix 5: Good Scientific Practice Mapping Template

Any one piece of evidence can be used in support of more than one domain or subdomain, but it is expected that more than one piece of evidence will be

submitted per domain.

Good Scientific Practice Standard

Indicate the page numbers/section in your Portfolio which

demonstrates achievement of this Standard

Domain 1: Professional Practice

1.1 Professional Practice

1.1.1 Make the patient your first concern

1.1.2 Exercise your professional duty of care

1.1.3 Work within the agreed scope of practice for lawful, safe and effective healthcare

science

1.1.4 Keep your professional, scientific, technical knowledge and skills up to date

1.1.5 Engage fully in evidence based practice

1.1.6 Draw on appropriate skills and knowledge in order to make professional judgements

1.1.7 Work within the limits of your personal competence

1.1.8 Act without delay on concerns raised by patients or carers or if you have good

reason to believe that you or a colleague may be putting people at risk

1.1.9 Never discriminate unfairly against patients, carers or colleagues

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1.1.10 Treat each patient as an individual, respect their dignity and confidentiality and

uphold the rights, values and autonomy of every service user, including their role in the

diagnostic and therapeutic process and in maintaining health and well-being.

1.1.11 Respond constructively to the outcome of audit, appraisals and performance reviews, undertaking further training where necessary

1.2 Probity

1.2.1 Make sure that your conduct at all times justifies the trust of patients, carers and

colleagues and maintains the public’s trust in the scientific profession

1.2.2 Inform the appropriate regulatory body without delay if, at any time, you have

accepted a caution, been charged with or found guilty of a criminal offence, or if any finding

has been made against you as a result of fitness to practice procedures, or if you are

suspended from a scientific post, or if you have any restrictions placed on your scientific,

clinical or technical practice

1.2.3 Be open, honest and act with integrity at all times, including but not limited to:

writing reports, signing documents, providing information about your qualifications,

experience, and position in the scientific community, and providing written and verbal

information to any formal enquiry or litigation, including that relating to the limits of your

scientific knowledge and experience

1.2.4 Take all reasonable steps to verify information in reports and documents, including

research

1.2.5 Work within the Standards of Conduct, Performance and Ethics set by your

profession

1.3 Working with colleagues

1.3.1 Work with other professionals, support staff, service users, carers and relatives in the

ways that best serve patients’ interests

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1.3.2 Work effectively as a member of a multi-disciplinary team

1.3.3 Consult and take advice from colleagues where appropriate

1.3.4 Be readily accessible when you are on duty

1.3.5 Respect the skills and contributions of your colleagues

1.3.6 Participate in regular reviews of team performance.

1.4 Training and developing others

1.4.1 Contribute to the education and training of colleagues

1.4.2 If you have responsibilities for teaching, develop the skills, attitudes and practices of

a competent teacher

1.4.3 Ensure that junior colleagues and students are properly supervised

1.4.4 Support colleagues who have difficulties with performance, conduct or health

1.4.5 Share information with colleagues to protect patient safety

1.4.6 Provide work-based development for colleagues to enhance/improve skills and

knowledge

Domain 2: Scientific Practice

2.1 Scientific Practice

2.1.1 Develop investigative strategies/procedures/processes that take account of relevant

clinical and other sources of information

2.1.2 Provide scientific advice to ensure the safe and effective delivery of services

2.1.3 Undertake scientific investigations using qualitative and quantitative methods to aid

the screening, diagnosis, prognosis, monitoring and/or treatment of health and disorders

appropriate to the discipline

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2.1.4 Investigate and monitor disease processes and normal states

2.1.5 Provide clear reports using appropriate methods of analysing, summarising and

displaying information

2.1.6 Critically evaluate data, draw conclusions from it , formulate actions and recommend

further investigations where appropriate

2.2 Technical Practice

2.2.1 Provide technical advice to ensure the safe and effective delivery of services

2.2.2 Plan, take part in and act on the outcome of regular and systematic audit

2.2.3 Work within the principles and practice of instruments, equipment and methodology

used in the relevant scope of practice

2.2.4 Demonstrate practical skills in the essentials of measurement, data generation and

analysis

2.2.5 Assess and evaluate new technologies prior to their routine use

2.2.6 Identify and manage sources of risk in the workplace, including specimens, raw

materials, clinical and special waste, equipment, radiation and electricity.

2.2.7 Apply principles of good practice in health and safety to all aspects of the workplace

2.2.8 Apply correct methods of disinfection, sterilisation and decontamination and deal

with waste and spillages correctly.

2.2.9 Demonstrate appropriate level of skill in the use of information and communications

technology

2.3 Quality

2.3.1 Set, maintain and apply quality standards, control and assurance techniques for

interventions across all clinical, scientific and technological activities

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2.3.2 Make judgements on the effectiveness of processes and procedures

2.3.3 Participate in quality assurance programmes

2.3.4 Maintain an effective audit trail and work towards continuous improvement

Domain 3: Clinical Practice

3.1 Clinical Practice

3.1.1 Ensure that you and the staff you supervise understand the need for and obtain

relevant consent before undertaking any investigation, examination, provision of treatment,

or involvement of patients and carers in teaching or research

3.1.2 Ensure that you and the staff you supervise maintain confidentiality of patient

information and records in line with published guidance

3.1.3 Ensure that you and your staff understand the wider clinical consequences of

decisions made on your actions or advice

3.1.4 Demonstrate expertise in the wider clinical situation that applies to patients who

present in your discipline

3.1.5 Maintain up to date knowledge of the clinical evidence base that underpins the

services that you provide and/or supervise and ensure that these services are in line with the

best clinical evidence

3.1.6 Plan and determine the range of clinical/scientific investigations or products required

to meet diagnostic, therapeutic, rehabilitative or treatment needs of patients, taking account

of the complete clinical picture

3.1.7 Plan and agree investigative strategies and clinical protocols for the optimal

diagnosis, monitoring and therapy of patients with a range of disorders

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3.1.8 Ensure that detailed clinical assessments are undertaken and recorded using

appropriate techniques and equipment and that the outcomes of these investigations are

reviewed regularly with users of the service

3.1.9 Ensure the provision of expert interpretation of complex and or specialist data across

your discipline in the context of clinical questions posed

3.1.10 Undertake and record a detailed clinical assessment using appropriate techniques

and equipment

3.1.11 Provide specialised clinical investigation and/or analysis appropriate to your discipline

3.1.12 Provide interpretation of complex and/or specialist data in the context of the clinical

question posed

3.1.13 Provide clinical advice based on results obtained, including a diagnostic or

therapeutic opinion for further action to be taken by the individual directly responsible for

the care of the patient

3.1.14 Provide expert clinical advice to stakeholders in order to optimise the efficiency and

effectiveness of clinical investigation of individuals and groups of patients

3.1.15 Prioritise the delivery of investigations, services or treatment based on clinical need

of patients

3.1.16 Represent your discipline in multidisciplinary clinical meetings to discuss patient

outcomes and the appropriateness of services provided

3.1.17 Ensure that regular and systematic clinical audit is undertaken and be responsible for

modifying services based on audit findings.

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3.2 Investigation and reporting

3.2.1 Plan and conduct scientific, technical, diagnostic, monitoring, treatment and

therapeutic procedures with professional skill and ensuring the safety of patients, the public

and staff

3.2.2 Perform investigations and procedures/design products to assist with the

management, diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation or planning in relation to the range of

patient conditions/equipment within a specialist scope of practice

3.2.3 Monitor and report on progress of patient conditions/use of technology and the need

for further interventions.

3.2.4 Interpret and report on a range of investigations or procedures associated with the

management of patient conditions/equipment

Domain 4: Research, Development and Innovation

4.1 Research, Development and Innovation

4.1.1 Search and critically appraise scientific literature and other sources of information

4.1.2 Engage in evidence-based practice, participate in audit procedures and critically

search for, appraise and identify innovative approaches to practice and delivery of healthcare

4.1.3 Apply a range of research methodologies and initiate and participate in collaborative

research

4.1.4 Manage research and development within a governance framework

4.1.5 Develop, evaluate, validate and verify new scientific, technical, diagnostic, monitoring,

treatment and therapeutic procedures and, where indicated by the evidence, adapt and

embed them in routine practice

4.1.6 Evaluate research and other available evidence to inform own practice in order to

ensure that it remains at the leading edge of innovation.

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4.1.7 Interpret data in the prevailing clinical context

4.1.8 Perform experimental work, produce and present results

4.1.9 Present data, research findings and innovative approaches to practice to peers in

appropriate forms

4.1.10 Support the wider healthcare team in the spread and adoption of innovative

technologies and practice

Domain 5: Clinical Leadership

5.1 Leadership

5.1.1 Maintain responsibility when delegating healthcare activities and provide support as

needed

5.1.2 Respect the skills and contributions of your colleagues

5.1.3 Protect patients from risk or harm presented by another person’s conduct,

performance or health

5.1.4 Treat your colleagues fairly and with respect

5.1.5 Make suitable arrangements to ensure that roles and responsibilities are covered

when you are absent, including handover at sufficient level of detail to competent colleagues

5.1.6 Ensure that patients, carers and colleagues understand the role and responsibilities of

each member of the team

5.1.7 Ensure that systems are in place through which colleagues can raise concerns and take

steps to act on those concerns if justified

5.1.8 Ensure regular reviews of team performance and take steps to develop and strengthen

the team

5.1.9 Take steps to remedy any deficiencies in team performance

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5.1.10 Refer patients to appropriate health professionals

5.1.11 Identify and take appropriate action to meet the development needs of those for

whom you have management, supervision or training responsibilities

5.1.12 Act as an ambassador for the Healthcare Science community

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For further information please contact the Academy for Healthcare Science:

Academy for Healthcare Science - Registration c/o

Executive Business Support Ltd

City Wharf

Davidson Road

Lichfield

Staffs, WS14 9DZ

E: equivalence@ahcs.ac.uk