About the Job
Part time: 30 hours per week
Fixed Term: Until February 2027
Interview date: 22 July 2026
This is an exciting opportunity for a senior nurse or midwife with strategic and operational leadership experience to work collaboratively with the Deputy Managers and Operations Manager to lead and manage the Competency Test Centre which offers the OSCE Test of Competence (TOC) and other exams to Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) and midwives (IEN/M) seeking entry to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) register and nurses, midwives and nursing associates returning to the register after lapsed registration.
The successful candidate will direct a large team of lead assessors, clinical assessors, actors and support staff (eg. OSCE administrator / technician, invigilators, operations team) in the streamlined delivery of simulated TOC exams ensuring an excellent candidate experience and a high-quality service is always maintained and contractual requirements are met.
Collaborate with the NMC, test developer partner, quality assurance partner and advisory assurance group to develop, deliver, monitor and evaluate OSCE outcomes and quality.
We want you to be able to carry out your work in a way that best supports UON and our students, but also you as an individual. We understand this may vary between different areas of the university as well as from one person to another. With Smarter Working you can work with increased flexibility, if you would like to, which can facilitate greater freedom and autonomy.
This post is subject to a background disclosure check by the Disclosure and Barring Service before any appointment can be confirmed.
About you
The post is suitable for senior nurses, or midwives who have the knowledge, skills and experience in leading multi-professional clinical teams, and the potential skills required for working with OSCEs and similar clinical exams.
The post holder should have:
Excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate at a professional level with stakeholders, such as the NMC, Trust employers, and candidates; along with exam delivery partners from other test centres, and test developers attending meetings in line with the post.
Qualifications
Faculty of Health, Sport and Behavioural Sciences - Competence Test Centre (CTC)
The Competence Test Centre (CTC) is part of the University of Northampton, Faculty of Health, Sport and Behavioural Sciences. It performs an important function and has a national social impact. The CTC facilitates NMC registration to around 8, 000 IENs and midwives annually, allowing them to enter the UK healthcare workforce and directly contribute to patient care nationally.
NMC Test of Competence - The Nursing and Midwifery Council
We offer the Test of Competence (TOC) which measures candidates against the current UK pre-registration standards for nursing, midwifery and nursing associates.
Standards for nurses - The Nursing and Midwifery Council (nmc.org.uk)
Standards for midwives - The Nursing and Midwifery Council (nmc.org.uk)
Standards for nursing associates - The Nursing and Midwifery Council (nmc.org.uk)
The distinct fields of practice tested includes:
Adult, Child, Learning disabilities, Mental health, Midwifery and Nursing Associates.
Our test centre (CTC) has expanded its facilities, and offers purpose built examination facilities for international candidates; centrally located in the heart of Northampton, opposite to the railway station.
About Us
At the University of Northampton, we are committed to supporting aspirations, creating opportunities, and delivering meaningful impact. Our people are at the heart of everything we do, and we foster a progressive, inclusive environment where excellence thrives for our students and staff.
Our People
Our staff are our greatest asset. We are dedicated to building an inclusive community that values diversity, promotes wellbeing, and supports personal and professional growth. By developing a first-rate People Strategy, we aim to attract and retain top talent, enhance career progression, and ensure that every colleague feels empowered to achieve their best.
Our Values
- Inclusivity: We celebrate diversity and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to excel.
- Sustainability: We are committed to becoming a net zero carbon institution, taking collective action for the benefit of society and the environment.
- Aspiration: We strive for excellence in all we do, empowering our staff, students, and partners to reach their highest potential.
- Trust: We build relationships based on respect, transparency, and shared goals.
Together, we are creating a future where our community, our work, and our impact truly make a difference.
Right to Work
All candidates will be asked to provide proof of eligibility to work in the UK at interview. The University can consider Skilled Worker visa sponsorship for this position subject to eligibility requirements of the points-based system being met.
Equality
We welcome applications from individuals from underrepresented groups.
The University of Northampton is committed to providing a vibrant, ethical, and sustainable environment that values equality, diversity, and inclusion. Our commitment ensures an inclusive atmosphere for staff, students, and the public. We manage equality and diversity through key committees and formal policies, extending our responsibility to subsidiary companies and partnerships.
Together @ UON
Our Commitment to Equality and Inclusion
Together @ UON affirms our dedication to creating an environment that celebrates diversity and promotes equality. We aim to foster a space where all can thrive, aligning with our mission to transform lives and inspire change.
Commitments Include:
- Creating an Inclusive Environment: Adopting a zero-tolerance approach to discrimination and ensuring all activities are inclusive.
- Supporting Students and Staff: Strengthening mental health support, enhancing disability confidence, and ensuring academic and professional support.
- Tackling Inequalities: Involving students in recruitment, integrating forums for equality data analysis, and supporting networks for protected characteristics.
UON’s Major Commitments:
- Disability Confident
- Standalone Pledge
- IHRA Working Definition
For more details, visit: Equality and Diversity at UON
