Protected Learning Time (PLT) is an opportunity for general practice teams (GPs, practice nurses, healthcare assistants, admin/reception staff and allied health professionals) to address their learning and professional development needs, improve team working and the quality of care provided to patients.  

NCL ICB is pleased to announce the launch of the PLT scheme for general practice part 2.

• Quarters 1-4: April  2025 to March 2026 – up to six PLT sessions

Practices are now invited to apply for Part 2.  

This includes a prospectus of suggested topics of which practices will be expected to choose from at least one of the recommended topics, but note that this list is not exhaustive and practices are permitted to also determine their own topic priorities.

Please see Downloads for more information:

• PLT Suggested List of Topics    
• The North Central London (NCL) Protected Learning Time (PLT) Scheme – Policy and Application Process 
• NCL ICB PLT Scheme Application Form – Memorandum of Understanding 
• PLT Feedback Form or Online Feedback Form

Please ensure your Feedback Form includes the topic, focus of the session, areas of learning and the outcomes from the session, along with any demonstrated improvements.

A microsite page called Protected Learning Time is available on the NCL GP website, serving as a repository for this information, including links to NCL Training Hub resources. 

PLT payment scheme:

• a one-off admin fee for joining the 15-month scheme of £100, per practice (please note, practices who took part in Part 1 (Q4 2024/25) of the scheme have already received this)
• an engagement payment of £300 per PLT session, per main practice site 
• an engagement payment of £100 per PLT session, per branch practice site 

Payment will be in arrears, on receipt of practices returning the Feedback Form, at the end of each quarter.  

Practices wishing to take PLT in 2025/26 will need to do the following:

• Submit an application by returning the attached Application Form – Memorandum of Understanding to nclicb.nclprimarycare@nhs.net by close of play,14 February, with the following information:
  • Dates and times of the practice PLT sessions
  • Confirmation that practice will be open and adhering to contractual requirements during each PLT session
  • Details of practice cover arrangements during the PLT session 

Practices will be informed of the outcome of their application by March 2025 and will be able to commence their PLT sessions from April 2025. If an application is refused, we will work with the practice to support them to resubmit.