Strengthening the role of trainers

We are introducing a new system to strengthen the role of doctors who train medical students and doctors.

Doctors who train other doctors are critical to developing and improving standards of care - they help shape the next generation of doctors and are important role models for medical students and doctors in training.

The new arrangements will formally recognise this contribution and should help to ensure those who take on training roles are adequately supported.

'Too often the senior clinicians who train, supervise, mentor and act as role models for the next generation of doctors are not given the recognition and support they deserve,’ said Niall Dickson, Chief Executive of the GMC.

‘Employers need to make sure they have the time, support and training they need to undertake this critical work. We want to make clear what is expected from organisations involved in training to support and recognise these important roles.'

Which training roles do the new arrangements cover?

We already formally approve doctors training future GPs.

The new arrangements cover four further roles:

• named education supervisors in postgraduate training
• named clinical supervisors in postgraduate training
• lead coordinators of undergraduate training at each local education provider
• doctors responsible for overseeing students' education progress for each medical school.

Local education providers such as NHS trusts and boards as well as general practices will have to put in place local systems to identify, educate and appraise these trainers so they are supported in their roles.

Postgraduate deaneries and medical schools will hold the names of all recognised non-GP trainers and show the GMC what local arrangements have been put in place to maintain standards.

When will the new system be in place?

The new arrangements will be introduced in phases. Local systems will be in place by July 2013 and medical trainers in the four roles above will be fully recognised by July 2016.

Find out more

The new arrangements are set out in detail in the education pages of our website.