Article

OD Essentials

Find out about our OD Essentials training course, a free course for those working in OD in the NHS.

29 October 2025

An officer worker leading a meeting.

OD Essentials is a free, online course for OD colleagues interested in finding out more about the role of OD in the NHS. Registrations for January 2026 will open soon.

The OD Essentials programme is funded by NHS England as part of its commitment to support and develop the people profession as outlined in The future of NHS human resources and organisational development report.
 

What the course covers: 

  • essential elements of OD theory and research
  • definitions and applications of OD in practice
  • the role of OD in enhancing the effectiveness of systems and the ability to achieve shared goals
  • the importance of the self in OD practice
  • the impact of OD on the quality and safety of patient care.  
     

Course details

  • OD Essentials requires examples of how you can use the learning in your role, or OD work you have already completed. It is not suitable for people not currently working in OD.  
  • The course lasts five weeks, with around six hours of learning per week. Study is completed in your own time and is self led. Please only apply if you can dedicate the time to complete it.
  • We hold two (optional) online sessions for each cohort to allow particpants to share learning, ask questions and offer peer support.

  • Frequently asked questions on applying for and completing OD Essentials.  

    How do I apply for the course? 

    Once a new cohort opens for registration, an application link can be found towards the bottom of this web page.    

    I have applied, but haven't heard back yet? 

    Please don't worry. If you have completed the application form, rest assured we have received your application. You can expect to hear back from us two weeks before the cohort is due to start.  

    What if I don't have the capacity to complete the course? 

    The course involves five weeks of approximately six hours of learning per week. If you can’t commit to this, please consider joining one of our future cohorts. You don't need to contact us, simply re-submit the application form for your preferred cohort.  

    How are the assessments marked? 

    Due to the volume of learners, the team does not have the capacity to review assessments individually. This course is 100 per cent online and self-led.  

    What do the virtual support sessions involve? Are these compulsory? 

    The two peer support sessions we provide are entirely optional. They are an opportunity to connect with others on the course, ask questions and share insights. We use breakout rooms to encourage discussion. No new content is covered, so there's no need to take notes.  

    Can I access a certificate on completion? 

    We are happy to provide a certificate on request. Please email us at do.od@nhsemployers.org with your name and the date of completion. We’ll verify your completion and send you a PDF copy.  

Apply for OD Essentials

The next course will run in January 2026 - registrations will open via this web page soon.

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