Paul and Josie: powering development, growth, and lifelong learning

Paul: promoting development for everyone

Paul served in the Royal Air Force as a Survival Equipment Fitter from 1982 to 2006, where he acquired a wealth of transferrable skills and experience. However, he initially faced uncertainty about how to communicate these abilities effectively to potential NHS employers, which resulted in a significant delay in his application for positions 
within the organization. 

Paul's journey to helping himself and others to enhance learning outcomes

Now, as a Learning and Development Facilitator and Organisational Development Advisor with NHS Scotland, Paul plays a vital role in designing, delivering, and evaluating leadership and management programs. He is also involved in team development activities, coaching and mentoring staff, and supporting wellbeing initiatives across the organization.

What Paul enjoys most about working in NHS Scotland is the opportunity to support and promote personal and professional development at every level of the organization. He values the chance to work across the stunning remote and rural landscapes of the 
Highlands, which adds to the richness of his role. Additionally, he appreciates the flexibility offered by a hybrid working approach that combines the use of MS Teams with face-to-face interactions, allowing for a more balanced and effective work experience.

Josie: nurturing growth and lifelong learning in healthcare

Josie has a strong connection to the armed forces community through her husband, who has been serving in the Royal Air Force since 2013 and is currently working towards his commission. This background has influenced her understanding of structure, dedication, and adaptability—qualities that she brings to her role within NHS Scotland.

Before joining the NHS, Josie’s perception was shaped by the idea of fairer pay for nurses, improved preceptorship programs, and the increased availability of remote opportunities. Her experiences have given her a unique perspective on the value of a supportive and well-structured healthcare system.

Josie's work to ensure everyone is supported and welcomed

Josie now works as a Practice Educator at Dr Gray’s Hospital, where she supports students, learners, and staff. She promotes education and lifelong learning, ensuring that practice learning experiences are of the highest quality. Josie also supports new staff members, implementing preceptorship programs and teaching vital clinical skills. Additionally, she collaborates with departments to enhance best practices across the hospital.

What Josie enjoys most about her role at NHS Scotland are the robust support systems in place for both students and staff, which foster a positive learning environment. She appreciates the flexible working policies, especially as a parent, and feels incredibly welcomed and valued as a member of the team. This sense of belonging and mutual 
respect makes her work not only impactful but also deeply fulfilling.