We are inviting submissions as part of a public consultation on our Draft Post-Registration Specialist Education Programmes Standards for Nursing and Midwifery.

These proposed standards represent an important development in the regulatory framework, marking the first time NMBI has established specific standards for specialist practice. They build on existing Standards for Entry to the Register and the Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics for Registered Nurses and Registered Midwives (2025). 

NMBI welcomes contributions from a wide range of stakeholders, including clinical and academic experts, those working in specialist practice, service providers, governance leads, health service users, and members of the public. As the statutory regulator, NMBI is responsible for setting and publishing standards for nursing and midwifery education and training, and for monitoring compliance with these standards in the interests of public protection. 

The draft standards will replace the current Post-Registration Nursing and Midwifery Standards and Requirements (2010, revised 2015) and introduce a clearer and more consistent approach to specialist education. 

Under the proposed standards, post-registration specialist programmes must be delivered at a minimum of NFQ Level 9, comprise at least 60 ECTS credits, and include a minimum of 10 ECTS dedicated to assessed clinical competence in the relevant specialist area. 

These programmes build on prior registration and professional experience, reflecting the increased accountability, clinical judgement, and responsibility associated with specialist practice. The standards are designed to support education providers and practice partners in preparing practitioners to deliver safe, effective, and high-quality care, while ensuring alignment with the broader NMBI regulatory framework and ongoing professional competence requirements. 

The standards are prospective in application and apply to specialist education programmes seeking NMBI accreditation following their implementation. They are not intended to affect qualifications previously awarded or specialist posts established to their implementation.

Visit our Consultations page to read the draft consultation document and submit your feedback through the online survey.

The closing date for submitting your feedback is 5pm on Wednesday, 29 July 2026.