overview of foundation training
What is Foundation Training?
Foundation Training is a 2 year programme designed to act as a bridge between medical school and specialty training. It creates the opportunity to gain experience working in a number of different specialties and was introduced in 2005 to replace the Pre-Registration House Officer (PRHO) year.
The training is supported by a curriculum which describes the domains and progress required to satisfactorily complete each stage. The first year (F1) is required for all UK graduates and others as determined by the General Medical Council (GMC).
Successful completion also results in progression from provisional to full registration. In the second year there is a focus on consolidating and developing F1 competencies but with a greater emphasis on training in the assessment and management of the acutely ill patient irrespective of the clinical setting.
How do I apply?
The UK Foundation Programme Office (UKFPO) organise and run the national application system. Application is via the UKFPO’s website www.foundationprogramme.nhs.uk. It is also a valuable source of information for all things Foundation, including a medical student forum. Important notes about the application process:
- Enrolment and application take place in the Autumn preceding the August start.
- Full details of the process are available on the UKFPO website from June with an Applicant’s Handbook available at the beginning of the enrolment period.
- Non-UK graduates or any graduate who has been out of practice for 2 years must apply via the UKFPO Eligibility Office in the preceding July/August.
- Applicants have the option to link their application with a partner/friend to ensure they are placed in the same FS, based on the lowest scoring applicant.
- Applicants who meet the criteria for Special Circumstances may apply for pre-allocation to a specific FS via their MS or the UKFPO Eligibility Office.
How am I allocated to a programme?
Each Foundation School has their own local process. Currently, all applicants are asked to rank programmes in order of preference. Some Foundation Schools (including NYECFS) hold interviews to determine programme allocation. Other Schools allocate jobs based on the application scores alone. Applicants need to check individual school websites for exact details (all of which are listed on the UKFPO website).
How much will I get paid?
The basic salary for an F1 doctor is £22,190 (April 2009). In addition to this, posts may carry a banding supplement. So, basic salary plus a 1B banding is approx £31,066. For further information see: www.nhsemployers.org .
How much leave do I get?
Annual leave works out at 9 days per 4 month post (plus bank holidays) but is organised locally within Trusts/departments – in some cases it is planned into the rota, in others there is flexibility. In F1, GMC requirements mean that if you miss more than 4 weeks over and above your statutory leave (annual leave and approved study leave) you may fail to obtain full registration and F1 sign off.
Less Than Full Time (LTFT) Training
Applicants with children, primary caring responsibilities or health issues may wish to undertake their Foundation Training LTFT. Working LTFT means working 50% of the hours of a full-time (f/t) trainee. Applicants must be appointed to a f/t programme before they are able to apply. Deaneries may approve trainees either as supernumerary or as a ‘slot share’. For more information on LTFT training in this Deanery see www.yorksandhumberdeanery.nhs.uk .
Time Out of Foundation Programme (TOFP)
Trainees wishing to take a year out of their training between F1 and F2 may apply for TOFP, subject to approval by the FS. NYECFS is happy to support applications subject to demand.
F2 Abroad
The Foundation Programme enables trainees to under take their F2 abroad, subject to approval by the FS. Responsibility lies with the trainee to organise a suitable placement and ensure that they will achieve the same F2 competencies as set out in the Curriculum. NYECFS is happy to support F2 abroad applications subject to demand.
