Discover how and why a growing number of NHS Trusts and healthcare organisations are embedding OET into their international recruitment and training programmes.
The value of OET to the NHS
Safeguards patients and ensures quality care
Overseas staff with OET have the standard of English needed for safe and effective practice as determined by the NMC, GMC and other UK regulators.
Speeds up the recruitment process
Comfort with the healthcare context of the test and extensive preparation support helps candidates be successful, moving through to registered status faster than before.
Supports with English beyond the test
The practical tasks in OET mimic those encountered in the workplace, so recruits with OET are ready for day 1 on the wards.

Kings Commercial
Althea D’Oyley Bowen
Head of Nursing Recruitment
at King’s Commercial

Royal Devon and Exeter
NHS Foundation Trust
Jane Dorothy
Matron for Practice Education
at Royal Devon and Exeter NHS Foundation Trust

Chelsea and Westminster
NHS Trust
Cathy Hill
Deputy Director of Nursing
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS
Foundation Trust

Yeovil and District
NHS Foundation Trust
Director of HR & OD at Yeovil District
Hospital NHS Foundation Trust
Deputy Chief Executive & Chief Nurse

Ongoing support with English language
“Even though I studied hard with an OET preparation provider and passed OET, I still have to keep learning English.”
Shinu, OET candidate from India now working in an English-speaking setting
Living the language
Our Living the Language guides provide guidance and top tips for overcoming the communication challenges commonly faced by healthcare professionals moving to work in English-speaking settings.
Clinical Educators’ Workshops
Designed for anyone involved in the training and development of overseas staff, our English workshops provide practical advice on how to support employees with passing their OET or improving their English in general.
Key Partners
OET is proud to partner with UK healthcare organisations on national programmes in support of international recruitment and workforce development.