NHS Band 5 supporting statement example

Band 5 is the typical entry point for newly registered professionals. Your statement must show registration (or that it's pending), safe practice, and how your placements or experience meet each criterion.

Typical Band 5 roles: Staff Nurse, Newly qualified Physiotherapist/OT, Band 5 Radiographer. Not affiliated with the NHS.

Got the person specification? Map your CV to every criterion — free match check first.

What shortlisters look for at Band 5

Professional registration (NMC/HCPC) or expected date
Safe, evidence-based practice
Communication with patients and the MDT
Commitment to learning and preceptorship

Recommended structure

Opening and registration status
Clinical skills mapped to criteria
Communication and teamwork examples
Learning and development
Values

Worked STAR example

Criterion: Ability to recognise and escalate a deteriorating patient

Situation: On my final placement on an acute medical unit, a patient's NEWS2 score rose during an evening shift.
Task: I was responsible for that patient's observations under supervision.
Action: I repeated the observations, informed my practice supervisor and followed the escalation pathway using SBAR.
Result: [Use the real outcome – e.g. the patient was reviewed promptly]

Brackets mark where your own true details go. Panels probe your examples at interview — never use one that isn't yours.

Common mistakes

Writing a generic statement that doesn't follow the person specification in order.
Copying the job description back instead of giving evidence.
Using AI or a template to claim experience you don't have — panels test it at interview.
Ignoring the trust's values.

FAQs

Can newly qualified nurses use placement examples?

Yes. Placement examples are expected at Band 5 — just be clear about your role and supervision.