APPLICATIONS OPEN: Apply now to join the next cohort
Applications for the January 2027 cohort are now open.
Before you apply, please review the important dates, eligibility criteria and funding information. When you’re ready, use the online application form link in the ‘Ready to Apply’ section below to complete and submit your application.
| Applications close Monday 26 October 2026 at 12 noon. |
Important dates
| Activity | Dates |
| Application window opens | Monday 14 September 2026 |
| Application window closes | Monday 26 October @ 12 noon |
| Application Selection Panel | w/c 16 November 2026 |
| Contact candidates | 20 - 23 November 2026 |
| Candidates confirm accepting funded place | No later than Tuesday 01 December 2026 |
| Student enrolment | TBC |
| Student online induction | TBC |
| Cohort start date | Monday 25 January 2027 |
Eligibility criteria
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 social care or who are interested 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 contributes to your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and career progression.
| Please note: If you are in the UK on a visa, please check that your immigration status allows you to access publicly funded learning opportunities before applying. |
Funding information
The Digitally Enabled Workforce (DEW) team, working with key partners, delivers the Digital, Data and Digital Leadership Capabilities Programme. The programme supports the delivery of Scotland’s Digital Health and Care Strategy, Data Strategy and Care in the Digital Age delivery plan. The PDA in TEC is part of this programme.
Places are fully funded by the Scottish Government, so there is no cost to participating organisations.*
| *Please note: A charge may apply to organisations where participants do not complete the award. |
Ready to Apply?
Follow the step by step process below to complete your application:
Review the Application Guidance. Visit the Application Guidance page for helpful information and tips on completing your application.
Check the requirements. Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and have line manager support. Line manager support is a mandatory requirement before you apply (see below for more information).
Prepare your responses. Download the application form template below and use it to prepare your answers.
Complete and submit your application. Use the responses you prepared in the template to complete the online application form, to submit your application.
| Please note: Email submissions will not be accepted. |
Application Form Template
Use the template below to prepare your responses before completing the online application.
Line Manager Support - Mandatory Requirement
Before applying, you must have the support of 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 you and your organisation.
- How the learning will positively impact people and colleagues.
- How the learning will help advance digital health and care activities within your 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 Monday 26 October 2026 at 12 noon. |
Essential application guidance and support
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.
| Please note: Applications written using generative AI tools (e.g. ChatGPT or Copilot) will not be accepted. |
If you have any questions or need support 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 easier to copy and paste your responses into the online form.
| Please note: The online form may time out, so make sure you have all your information ready before you begin. |
When you submit your application, a confirmation email will be sent to your line manager. It’s therefore essential to discuss your application with them in advance and secure their support.
For everything you need to know before applying, check the Application Guidance section.