NHS Band 5 Interview Questions
What panels expect at Band 5: Practitioner level. The candidate should show they maintain the behaviour in their own practice AND encourage or support others to do the same, and can evaluate their own and others' work.
Example questions below are pitched at this level, across the values-based competencies NHS and HSC panels use. Answer them with real examples and, where you can, show the depth expected for Band 5.
Care and Compassion
- How do you make the people you deal with feel welcome and valued? Give an example.
- Describe a time you challenged poor care, or a lack of compassion, that was affecting someone.
Technical / Role Specific Skills
- What knowledge and skills do you bring that are relevant to this post?
- How do you make sure your knowledge and skills stay up to date?
Communication
- Tell me about a time you had to summarise something complex for a patient, relative or colleague.
- Describe a situation you could have handled better with clearer communication.
Personal and People Development
- Talk me through the development plans you have at the moment.
- Tell me about a time you shared your skills or knowledge with someone less experienced.
Health, Safety and Security
- Describe a time you took clear personal responsibility for safety at work.
- How do you contribute to the health and safety of yourself, your patients and your colleagues?
Service Improvement
- Tell me about a time you found a better way of doing something that benefited patients and families.
- Describe a time you suggested improvements to patient care or services.
Quality
- Give an example of how you have improved the quality of your own work.
- Talk me through what evidence-based practice means to you.
Equality and Diversity
- Tell me about a time you drew on your knowledge of equality and diversity at work.
- Give an example of a time you had to follow a policy relating to equality and diversity.
Practise at Band 5 level
The NHS Interview Coach marks your answers at the level expected for your band and tells you what would lift them higher — plus a rewrite of your own answer. First feedback free.
Try the NHS Interview Coach free →Other bands