As a multi-practice and multi-disciplinary GP training hub we have the capability to provide our trainees with a broad spectrum of real-time learning opportunities. Our clinical team provides access to a vast wealth of experience for trainee support and clinical insight.
It is vital that the next generation of GPs are capable of taking on the modern and ever changing challenge of the NHS. We are aware this requires skills that cannot be gained from a classroom or textbook. We want our trainees to develop critical thinking, confidence in their skills, compassion, enthusiasm for our local community, and a touch of resilience. Producing a qualified GP takes years, and many resources – we take this responsibility seriously and aim to train competent physicians capable of being General Practitioners sought-after by both the work place and patients.
Trainees at LWP come in various guises, including those with us on a bespoke International programme integrating overseas doctors to our UK health system.
You may meet medical students completing their undergraduate degrees, with us for short term placements from the University of Southampton. These will generally be observing, and experiencing general practice for the first time.
Doctors that have recently qualified from medical school but are gaining general experience prior to taking a specialist route are called Foundation Year doctors. They are also with us for short term placements and are closely supervised.
Doctors that have decided to pursue GP as a specialist training will already have a few years medical experience and are with us longer term as Registrars. They will be spending time gaining the clinical experience necessary to qualify, alongside their practical and written exams with the Wessex Deanery. All of our Registrars are formally supervised by a qualified GP Trainer, of which we have three.
Alongside our doctors in training we have a broad spectrum of other clinicians formally training with us. We provide training placements for healthcare assistants, nurses, physician associates, pharmacy technicians and more. We also provide clinical training for our five in-house pharmacists, including support to become independent prescribers when needed.
Because of our reach our placements offer the clinical experience of working in inner city and rural practice, and meeting patients with diverse needs, backgrounds and life experiences. This broad base is the perfect springboard for trainees to get a good grounding of general practice and what it means to work in and for the local community.
All our clinicians meet online once each week for a catch up and learning, discussing topics ranging from new clinical guidelines to prescribing updates. Guest speakers update us on the latest thinking in a specialist area. Together we are a welcoming and supportive team helping one another to thrive in the workplace and in turn best serve our patients.