Resource: AHP Educator Career Framework - Council of Deans of Health

Purpose
Developed by the Council of Deans for Health and commissioned by NHS England, this framework provides a national standard for AHP educators across academic and practice settings. It supports individuals, managers, and organisations to plan and progress educator careers.

Core Structure

• Six Competency Domains:

  1. Responsibility & Accountability – safe, effective practice and self-reflection.
  2. Inclusive Leadership – creating equitable learning environments.
  3. Community & Co-production – engaging learners and service users.
  4. Knowledge & Skills – evidence-based teaching and assessment.
  5. Digital & Sustainability – embedding tech and green principles.
  6. Academic Qualifications – guidance on formal training routes.

• Four Career Stages: Flexible pathway from entry-level educator to advanced leadership roles, promoting diversity and equity.

Implementation Tools

• Interactive Web Tool (via NHS Learning Hub & FutureNHS) for self-assessment and career mapping.
• Pilots in South East region tested single-entry platforms and training toolkits; identified challenges like funding and time constraints.

Why It Matters
Addresses educator shortages, ageing workforce, and lack of clear progression routes. Supports succession planning and reinforces education as a pillar alongside practice, leadership, and research.

Alignment
Integrates with NHS workforce strategies, advanced practice frameworks, and EDI guidance (e.g., anti-racism in AHP education). Free access via NHS Learning Hub.

In essence, this evidence-based, inclusive, and flexible framework supports AHP career development in education through competency standards, assessment tools, and strategic implementation—addressing workforce constraints and enhancing educator quality for the future.