A multi-strand programme to provide genomics educators with opportunities to develop their educational knowledge and skills

Genomics is now part of routine care. More staff need the knowledge and confidence to use it, and more educators are needed to support this shift.  

To address this workforce need, the Genomics Pedagogic Scheme (GPedS) has been established. GPedS is a new structured development scheme designed and delivered as a partnership between NHS England’s Genomics Education Programme (GEP) and City St George’s, University of London.

Aims and objectives

The overall aim of GPedS is to build a sustainable community of educational practice across genomic medicine through: 

  • increasing genomics educator capability and capacity;
  • enabling educators to deliver high-quality, evidence-informed practice; and
  • supporting educators to help develop the genomics workforce.

How will GPedS be deployed?

GPedS is a multi-strand programme that will provide genomics educators with opportunities to develop their educational knowledge and skills through a combination of: 

  • factsheet-style resources to support educator development;  
  • continuing professional development (CPD) activities, including bite-sized learning and guided activities, with peer learning opportunities;
  • funded opportunities to undertake a postgraduate certificate (PGCert) in Health Professions Education; and 
  • a funded PhD studentship focused on genomics education and pedagogy. 

More information about these components is available below.

CPD programme

  • Short, flexible learning you can fit around your work.
  • Includes bite-sized learning and guided activities, with peer learning opportunities.
  • Development work is ongoing, with launch dates to be confirmed. 

PGCert in Health Professions Education

  • A funded academic course in Health Professions Education.
  • Builds education expertise and leads to a formal level 7 qualification.  
  • Information about applications and the selection processes will be communicated later this year.
  • The funded PGCert cohort will commence in September 2027. 

PhD studentship

  • A funded research opportunity focused on genomics pedagogy. 
  • Includes contributing new evidence, developing research skills and shaping future education practice.
  • The application window has now closed and recruitment is currently underway. Details can be accessed here: City St George’s studentships.
  • The successful candidate is expected to commence their PhD from Autumn 2026.

Who is GPedS for?

  • GPedS has been established for genomics workforce educators within the NHS Genomics Medicine Service (GMS).
  • The scheme represents a significant investment in the professional development of genomics educators and aims to support those who design, deliver, supervise and evaluate learning within the GMS.
  • You can engage with GPedS in different ways, depending on your role and experience.
  • The factsheet-style resources and CPD offerings will be available to anyone who has a role in genomics education, training, supervision or workforce development.
  • There will be strict eligibility criteria for the funded PGCert. Further details will be added to this webpage in the coming weeks.
  • The advert detailing eligibility for the PhD has already been circulated. The application window has now closed.

What are the timelines?

The scheme will be delivered in phases, with different elements opening at different times. Application dates will be shared when each opportunity opens. 

An indicative timeline is available below.

Summer 2026

  • CPD resources in development 
  • PhD recruitment 

Autumn / winter 2026

  • PGCert recruitment and application to commence
  • PhD programme running 
  • New CPD opportunities released  

2027

  • PhD programme running
  • September: PGCert cohorts begin
  • Ongoing: new CPD opportunities released

Next steps: what can you do?

Ready to take the next step in your education role?  You can:

  • explore the upcoming opportunities available and consider the right option for you;
  • open the conversation with your line manager; and
  • bookmark this page and revisit to keep up to date with current developments around the scheme. 

FAQs

If you have any questions about GPedS, please contact the GEP team.

We will also hold a webinar in the autumn to answer any questions and you can check back here later for a list of FAQs.