Evaluating the Characteristics Supporting Successful Completion of Flying Start in NHS Scotland

Flying Start is a web-based development programme for all newly qualified nurses, midwives and allied health professionals (NMAHPs) starting work within NHS Scotland. The programme aims to support new staff through an often difficult transition to capable, confident practitioners (Jamieson et al, 2012) through a structured programme of online and work based learning with associated mentoring. An initial evaluation of the Programme showed that Flying Start NHS® was well received and seen to be useful; however concerns were raised about the variation in the completion rates (Banks et al, 2011). This paper reports on an evaluation of the key characteristics that supported successful completion of the learning outcomes of Flying Start NHS® for newly qualified practitioners.

A qualitative approach was used to gather the views of 56 health professionals from five NHS Boards in Scotland, using a series of semi-structured telephone interviews and focus groups. Interview data was recorded, transcribed and analysed using Framework Analysis (Ritchie and Spencer, 1994). Participants included nurse and AHP directors, leaders in human resources and learning and development, managers and mentors, and newly qualified practitioners who had either recently completed the Flying Start NHS® programme or were due to complete the programme within the next six months. Three main themes emerged from the analysis: organisational structures and support; incentives and motivating factors; and defining completion. Key factors leading to successful completion were identified at Programme, NHS Board and individual level. These included clear communication and signposting, up-to-date and relevant content, links with continuing professional development frameworks, effective mentor and peer support, setting clear standards for assessment and appropriate IT access. Recommendations from this evaluation are being addressed at both a national and local level and have contributed to a national action plan focusing on improving engagement, monitoring and content of the Flying Start NHS® Programme.

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Jamieson, L. Harris, L. and Hall, A. (2012) Providing support for newly qualified practitioners in Scotland. Nursing Standard. vol 27, no 2, pp. 33-36.

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