FOR CLINICAL SUPERVISORS
Supervising a candidate
The requirements for being a clinical supervisor for a Nurse Practitioner (NP) candidate is that you are a senior NP or senior doctor. It is an important role and you may have some questions about how the NPTSS helps the candidate. We are here to ensure NP candidates are well-supported throughout their practicum and transition into independent practice.
Clinical supervision and release time
NP candidates will be working in a supernumerary role during their practicum hours and must complete 500 hours of supernumerary practice as part of their academic requirement. Up to 430 hours are funded by NPTSS through clinical release time, including a minimum of 80 hours for a secondary placement.
Supervision is provided by experienced clinicians who understand the NP scope of practice and offer real-time feedback, case discussions, and reflective learning.
Cultural support
Cultural Advisors provide a culturally safe space for Nurse Practitioner candidates to reflect, learn, and build confidence in applying Te Tiriti o Waitangi in practice. As part of the NPTSS support network, they help candidates strengthen their cultural capability, explore practice through a cultural lens, and deliver equitable, culturally responsive care for the diverse communities of Aotearoa.
Support is tailored to each candidate's needs, recognising that individuals come with different experiences, knowledge, and levels of confidence. Through this developmental approach, candidates can enhance their cultural capability and readiness for NP practice in Aotearoa.
Frequently asked questions
Can the clinical supervisor and referee be the same person?
Yes, the referee and clinical supervisor can be the same person.
Does a clinical supervisor need to be a fellow, or can an experienced registrar or senior doctor act as a supervisor?
You do not need to be a fellow. The key requirement is that you can provide clinical support and commit to the role.
If the candidate changes employment or internship location, do they need a new supervisor?
Yes. The supervisor must be from the same area of employment to provide hands-on support.
Is a clinical mentor with two years’ NP experience acceptable?
We’d encourage candidates to direct any questions about clinical mentors to their chosen academic provider as it is the academic provider that ultimately approves the clinical mentor.
From the NCNZ education standards: The academic provider must negotiate the practicum and clinical mentors for each student and have a process to assess them as satisfactory to enable student learning before the commencement of the practicum and for the duration of it.