In the fast-paced world of healthcare, the role of an NHS Personal Assistant (PA) is crucial for keeping departments, clinicians, and administrators organised and efficient. A Personal Assistant in the NHS supports senior staff—such as clinical directors, consultants, or department heads—by handling correspondence, scheduling meetings, managing diaries, organising documents, and ensuring day-to-day administrative duties are completed seamlessly. This helps medical professionals stay focused on patient care, which is at the heart of the NHS mission.
The average salary for an NHS Personal Assistant ranges from £23,500 to £28,000 per annum, typically aligned with Band 4 or Band 5 on the NHS Agenda for Change pay scale. More experienced PAs or those working with senior leadership may earn up to £32,000+ annually.
To help you secure this vital role, we’ve compiled the 20 most common NHS PA interview questions along with sample answers and tips to help you shine.
Top 20 NHS Personal Assistant Interview Questions and Model Answers
Can you describe your previous experience as a Personal Assistant?
Sample Answer: I’ve worked for over 3 years as a PA in a fast-paced medical setting, supporting a department head with diary management, meeting coordination, and minute-taking. I’m familiar with NHS systems like ESR and have worked with patient data, always following strict confidentiality protocols.
How do you manage competing priorities?
Sample Answer: I assess each task’s urgency and importance, often using the Eisenhower Matrix. I also maintain an up-to-date digital calendar and communicate with stakeholders to manage expectations effectively.
Describe a time you had to deal with confidential information.
Sample Answer: In my previous role, I handled staff sickness records and medical documentation. I ensured all records were securely stored and only accessible by authorised personnel, complying with GDPR and NHS data security policies.
How do you ensure accuracy when preparing reports or documents?
Sample Answer: I double-check all details and use templates where appropriate. I proofread everything before submission and seek a colleague’s review for critical documents.
What software are you proficient in?
Sample Answer: I’m highly skilled in Microsoft Office Suite, especially Outlook, Word, Excel, and Teams. I also have experience using NHS-specific systems like SystmOne, ESR, and e-Rostering.
How do you handle a challenging stakeholder or difficult colleague?
Sample Answer: I stay calm, listen actively, and focus on resolving the issue professionally. I aim to understand their perspective and find common ground. If necessary, I escalate the issue tactfully.
Tell me about a time you made a mistake. How did you handle it?
Sample Answer: I once sent an incorrect agenda for a departmental meeting. I quickly acknowledged the error, sent a corrected version with a clear note, and followed up with the chair to ensure clarity.
What motivates you to work for the NHS?
Sample Answer: I’m passionate about healthcare and want to contribute by supporting those who care for patients. Working for the NHS aligns with my values of service, equality, and community care.
How do you manage a busy diary with last-minute changes?
Sample Answer: I keep digital diaries synced across platforms and leave buffer time between meetings. I’m proactive in confirming appointments and quick to reschedule if needed.
What steps do you take to prepare for meetings?
Sample Answer: I ensure the agenda is set, relevant materials are ready, and participants are informed in advance. I also check room bookings and tech setup if meetings are hybrid or virtual.
Describe your minute-taking style.
Sample Answer: I take concise, action-focused minutes using a structured template. I highlight decisions made and responsibilities assigned. I distribute them promptly for approval and follow-up.
How do you prioritise tasks under pressure?
Sample Answer: I categorise tasks based on deadlines and impact. I start with critical items and communicate transparently with my manager if timelines shift.
What’s your experience working with senior management?
Sample Answer: I’ve supported directors and senior clinicians, managing confidential schedules, drafting correspondence, and preparing presentations for board-level meetings.
Are you familiar with NHS policies and procedures?
Sample Answer: Yes, I’ve completed mandatory NHS training in safeguarding, information governance, and infection control, and I stay updated on policy changes relevant to admin roles.
What would you do if your line manager asked you to complete a task you didn’t understand?
Sample Answer: I would politely ask for clarification or request a brief explanation. I believe it’s better to ask than to assume and risk errors.
How do you handle interruptions throughout the day?
Sample Answer: I manage interruptions by keeping a to-do list and blocking out time for focused tasks. I’m flexible but ensure that urgent tasks are reprioritised efficiently.
What’s your typing speed and accuracy?
Sample Answer: My typing speed is around 70 words per minute with high accuracy. I’m comfortable transcribing from audio or handwritten notes.
How do you stay organised?
Sample Answer: I use a combination of digital tools like Outlook, OneNote, and Trello, along with written lists. I set reminders and review my priorities each morning.
Why should we hire you for this NHS PA role?
Sample Answer: I bring proven administrative expertise, a solid understanding of NHS systems, and a professional, compassionate approach to supporting teams under pressure.
What are your long-term career goals?
Sample Answer: I aim to progress within the NHS in a leadership or operations support role, continuing to contribute to efficient, patient-focused care delivery.
Final Tips for Acing Your NHS Personal Assistant Interview
• Be familiar with NHS values – Respect, Compassion, and Excellence. Think about how your work supports these.
• Prepare real-life STAR examples (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to answer competency-based questions.
• Dress professionally, even if the interview is virtual.
• Be punctual and polite. Administrative roles require strong interpersonal skills.
• Follow up with a thank-you email to express enthusiasm for the role.
Good luck! With thorough preparation and a clear demonstration of your skills, you’ll be well on your way to becoming an invaluable part of the NHS team.
