A SUPERVISORY MODEL OF PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE - A JOINT SERVICE/EDUCATION INITIATIVE

This article is concerned with describing how a National Health Service (NHS) Hospital Trust teamed up with a College of Nursing and Midwifery to develop a model of clinical supervision. The article discusses definitions of clinical supervision, which were used as a basis for the development of the model; identifies the roles and responsibilities of clinical supervisors and describes the foundations of an integrated system of educational and professional development, The model aims to set standards for clinical competence which facilitate continuity in professional development throughout the practitioner's career, The collaboration between the two organisations has ensured that the model reflects the inter-relationship between theory and practice, thus enhancing both academic and professional development, The result is a comprehensive model for clinical supervision which encompasses key national initiatives in both professional and educational fields; in particular the United Kingdom Central Council (UKCC) requirements for continuing registration, maintenance of a portfolio of professional development, and continuing education (PREP) and the Ten Key Characteristics of the English National Board (ENB) Higher Award. It also encourages practitioners to demonstrate good practice through the requirement to articulate and enhance professional knowledge using a portfolio, along with a system of peer review and defined clinical competencies.