Knowledge & Skills Framework (KSF)

The NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework (KSF) applies to all staff who are employed under NHS Agenda for Change (AfC) Terms and Conditions. It is a useful tool to identify the knowledge, skills and learning and development that staff need to do their job well. The KSF is a broad framework which supports a fair and consistent approach to Personal Development Planning and Review known as PDP&R in short.

PDP&R is a regular conversation between the manager and the staff member which helps staff to:

  • be clear about what is expected of them in their job
  • have regular feedback on how they are performing at work
  • show how they contribute to the team objectives and purpose
  • show how their job supports safe and effective services for patients and their families
  • plan for any new learning that they need to gain new skills or improve their existing skills and agree their own personal development plan
  • discuss any ideas they have for improving the services that they help to provide

The principles of PDP&R using the KSF are based on effective leadership and good people management – it is about treating all staff fairly and equitably. In turn, individual members of staff are expected to develop and apply their knowledge and skills to meet the demands of their post and to work safely and effectively.

Updated KSF guidance is available on the KSF website using the following link – Advanced Practice Toolkit – NHS Knowledge and Skills Framework.

KSF Handbook

KSF Handbook

Click here for a copy of the KSF Handbook.

KSF

Knowledge and Skills Framework (KSF)

This section includes information/documents about KSF.