Apply for the next Cohort
Applications are now closed for the January 2026 Cohort.
Please register your interest here to be the first to hear about future cohorts.
Eligibility
Applications are welcome from staff working across all health and social care settings in Scotland including health, social care, social work, housing, and the independent and third sectors.
This PDA is ideal for those who are new to digital health and care or with an interest in finding out more, as well as those already working in this area who want to deepen their knowledge and skills. It supports work-based learning and contribute to your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and career progression.
Funding
The Digitally Enabled Workforce (DEW) team, in partnership with key stakeholders, delivers the Digital, Data and Digital Leadership Capabilities Programme which supports the delivery of Scotland’s Digital Health and Care Strategy, Data Strategy and Care in the Digital Age delivery plan.
The Professional Development Award in Technology Enabled Care is part of this programme and is fully funded by the Scottish Government, meaning there is no cost to organisations. However, NHS Education for Scotland (NES) reserves the right to charge organisations if participants do not complete the award.
How to apply: Step-by-step application process
Please follow the steps below to complete your application:
- Download the application form template below and prepare your responses in advance before completing the online form.
- Get line manager support. This is a mandatory requirement before applying (see below).
- Complete the online application form, using the responses you prepared in the application form template.
- Submit your application via the online form.
Please not that email submissions will not be accepted.
Online Application Form |
Applications are now closed |
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PDA in TEC Application Form Template Guidance 2025
Line Manager Support - Mandatory Requirement
Before applying, you must have support from your line manager. They will need to:
Confirm they agree to the Line Manager Essential Requirements, and provide a supporting statement in response to the Line Manager Question, covering:
- Why the learning opportunity is relevant to the applicant and the organisation.
- How the learning will positively impact people and colleagues.
- How it will help advance digital health and care activities within the organisation.
Please note:
The line manager's response will be scored as part of your application.
Applications without a completed line manager section will not be considered.
Applications close at midnight on Sunday 26 October 2025.
Help with your application
Applications are assessed by a selection panel, so it’s important to carefully follow the application guidance and submit a well-prepared application that meets all the criteria - giving you the best chance of securing a fully funded place.
Please note: Applications written using generative AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT, Copilot) will not be accepted.
If you have any questions or need help with your application, please contact us at: nes.dew@nhs.scot
Top tips before you apply
We recommend using the application form template to prepare your answers in advance. This will make it easy to copy and paste your responses into the online form.
Please note: The online form may time out, so be sure to have all your information ready before you begin.
When you submit your application, a confirmation email will be sent to your line manager. That’s why it’s essential to discuss your application with them in advance and secure their support.
Check the application guidance section for everything you need to know before applying.
Recruitment and Selection Process Timeline for January 2026 Cohort
| Activity | Dates |
| Application window opens | Monday 29 September 2025 |
| Application window closes | Sunday 26 October 2025 @ midnight |
| Application Selection Panel | w/c 17 November 2025 |
| Contact candidates | 21 and 24 November 2025 |
| Candidates confirm accepting funded place | No later than 28 November 2025 |
| Student enrolment | 15 December to 19 December 2025 and 05 January to 09 January 2026 |
| Cohort start date | Monday 26 January 2026 |
| Student online induction | w/c 26 January 2026 and w/c 02 February 2026 (various days and times) |