2025 - SFP FAQs

How will the SFP selection process work – i.e. how will interested applicants be selected?

• The detailed process will be published shortly.

When will the process take place and what is the timeline?

• The process will begin after allocation to Scotland as your UoA.

Am I still required to preference all Groups if I am only interested in a SFP post?

• YES - allocated foundation applicants will need to preference ALL Groups in Scotland not just the SFP groups.

If I have been pre-allocated to Scotland, can I still apply for a SFP post?

• YES - applicants who are pre-allocated to Scotland are still able to apply for a SFP Group. Approved applicants who are pre-allocated to Scotland for particular reasons are where possible allocated to the region which supports their requirements as detailed in their pre-allocation application form.

Can I still apply for FPP post and if I accept an offer in Scotland, can I change my mind and apply for SFP?

• NO - the FPP programmes are run as a separate vacancy, and you have accepted this post ahead of others who are in the main FP PIA allocation process. If you have accepted a FPP programme in Scotland, you are unable to apply for a SFP Group.

Can I still link my application to another applicant for FP for allocation to school and then apply for a SFP posts?

• NO - the option of linking an application is only available as part of the FP allocation, because as soon as you rank groups in a different order, the link is broken.

Do I need to preference all 5 Groups in Scotland?

• NO - you should only preference the Groups (region) you are interested in, (which may be 1, 2, 3, 4 or all 5 groups) please note that that you may not be offered your first preference. Therefore, we suggest that you rank all FP Groups (regions) in Scotland.

I have been allocated to a SFP but no longer want the SFP post?

• Allocated applicants who no longer wish to take up their allocated SFP post will be withdrawn from the foundation programme for all posts due to commence in August 2025.

What if I disagree with my outcome?

• If you feel the process was not carried out in a fair and transparent manner, you may submit an appeal.  Appeals window wiil open after National Allocations are released on 10/04/2025.

Can I get feedback on my SFP Application?

• Please request feedback via the sfas@nes.scot.nhs.uk email between 10/04/2025 and 22/04/2025 only during this period.
• Scores and rankings will not be released to applicants as this process is not comparable with other SFP allocation processes across the UK.

Allocation to Foundation School

• Please see the link to allocation webpages on the UKFPO website here. Where you will find helpful information including the published timeline and more details on PIA.