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Scottish Improvement Leader (ScIL)

The Scottish Improvement Leader (ScIL) programme has been designed for those in a role with significant focus on quality improvement, to develop individuals to design, develop and lead improvement initiatives.

You should have influence over a team's work plan to do this course.​ On this page you'll see the programme delivery and content you will be committing to.

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About ScIL

The ScIL programme is a quality improvement course developed by a number of Scottish Public Service Improvement Partners. Regardless of your specific role, ScIL equips its participants with the knowledge, tools, and skills needed to apply quality improvement methodologies, lead change initiatives, leverage data for informed decision-making, and create a collaborative environment that promotes continuous improvement.

See further information about ScIL at TURAS Learn.

Important: Important notes for the application process

All ScIL applicants must have completed a form of QI education that focuses on core quality improvement methods and tools before submitting an application form. Examples of this type of QI education include:

Step-by-step guide to completing your application

Step 1: review programme information

Carefully read the ScIL programme overview, learning outcomes and eligibility criteria.

Reflect on your current role, your QI experience and how you intend to lead or support improvement in your area of practice.

Step 2: discuss organisational support

Meet with your line manager to explore your suitability for the programme, and the improvement work you could lead. To apply, the following support must be secured:

  • Protected time (7.5 hours per week) for ScIL-related activities.
  • Support to lead a meaningful improvement project aligned with organisational or national priorities.
  • Mentorship: organisational and QI - NES QI team can help if needed.
  • Sponsorship at executive level who will support and oversee your project at a senior leadership level.
  • Following course completion, release from normal duties for up to 10 days per year to support wider NHS Highland QI work as a mentor, coach or facilitator.

Mentorship requirements 

  • Organisational mentor provides guidance within the strategic context of the organisation, removing any barriers you may face - they help align your project with strategic priorities.
  • QI mentor to support you to apply QI knowledge.

Ensure your line manager, mentor and executive sponsor are aware of their roles and responsibilities during and after the programme.

Step 3: prepare your application

Download the ScIL application form (Word document) from the QI Zone recruitment page.

Use the prompts provided to draft your answers that demonstrate your commitment to leading QI in your workplace.

Step 4: obtain supporting signatures

Share your completed application with your line manager and executive sponsor for review.

Collect electronic signatures and the required statements of support.  

If you don't know who your executive sponsor is, see the list of executive level sponsors (Word format - Intranet login required).

Step 5: submit your application

Ensure your application is complete, accurate and submitted to the NES QI team mailbox by the closing date listed on the QI Zone:

email qualityimprovement@nes.scot.nhs.uk 

Quality Improvement learning opportunities

Last updated: 9 June 2025

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