TL;DR: Complete guide to writing an NHS CV for Band 2–7 roles. Includes structure, essential skills, supporting information tips, and ATS-friendly formatting for NHS Jobs.
How NHS Recruitment Differs
NHS recruitment uses a specific process that differs from private sector hiring. Applications are submitted through NHS Jobs (or Trac Jobs), and each role has a Person Specification listing Essential and Desirable criteria. Your CV and supporting information must directly evidence these criteria. Shortlisting panels score each criterion — if you miss one, you lose points.
NHS CV Structure
Your NHS CV should follow this structure:
1. Personal Details
2. Professional Summary (tailored to the band and speciality)
3. Employment History (reverse chronological, with NHS-relevant duties)
4. Education and Qualifications
5. Professional Registration (NMC, HCPC, etc.)
6. Training and Continuing Professional Development
7. Key Skills
8. References
Keep it clean, factual, and aligned with the Person Specification.
Band 2–3 CV Tips (Healthcare Assistant, Admin)
For entry-level NHS roles, focus on transferable skills: communication, teamwork, attention to detail, and any care experience (even informal). Mention DBS checks, manual handling training, and infection control awareness. Use specific examples: "Supported 12 patients daily with personal care needs including washing, dressing, and mobility assistance."
Band 5–6 CV Tips (Newly Qualified Nurses, Therapists)
Emphasise your clinical placements, competencies signed off during training, and your professional registration. Include specific clinical skills relevant to the role (e.g., venepuncture, catheterisation, wound management). Reference the NHS Constitution values and show evidence of reflective practice.
Band 7 CV Tips (Team Leaders, Senior Practitioners)
At Band 7, evidence of leadership, service improvement, and audit/research is essential. Include examples of managing teams, handling budgets, implementing clinical guidelines, and mentoring junior staff. Quantify where possible: "Led a team of 15 nurses across a 30-bed acute medical ward."
Writing the Supporting Information Section
The supporting information (or personal statement) is often more important than the CV itself. Structure it around the Essential Criteria from the Person Specification. Use the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) for each criterion. Keep paragraphs short and use bold text for criterion headings to help the panel navigate your statement.
Common NHS CV Mistakes
• Using a generic CV not tailored to the Person Specification
• Forgetting to mention professional registration numbers
• Not addressing every Essential Criterion
• Using private-sector jargon instead of NHS terminology
• Submitting a CV longer than 3 pages
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a different CV for each NHS application?
Yes. Each NHS role has a unique Person Specification. You must tailor your CV and supporting information to match the specific Essential and Desirable criteria for each application.
Should I include my NMC/HCPC PIN on my CV?
Yes. Include your professional registration number, registration body, and expiry date. This is expected for all regulated NHS roles.