Tips for preparation and application for GP training in the UK

Tips for preparation and application for GP training in the UK 

written and collected by Mohamed Hassan 

Disclaimer

You have to check the up-to-date information about the topic 

also, review the local legal regulations 

Hello, fellow junior doctors! If you are thinking of pursuing a career in general practice, you might be wondering how to prepare for GP training. Well, you are in luck, because I have some tips and resources to share with you that will help you get ready for this exciting and rewarding journey. Here are some of the things you can do to prepare for GP training:

- Learn about the GP curriculum and the e-portfolio. The GP curriculum is a comprehensive guide to what you need to know and do as a GP trainee. It covers 21 areas of competence that you will develop throughout your training. The e-portfolio is an online tool that helps you record your learning and achievements and provides evidence of your progress. You can access the GP curriculum and the e-portfolio on the RCGP website: https://www.rcgp.org.uk/training-exams/training/gp-curriculum-overview.aspx

- Get some experience in primary care. One of the best ways to prepare for GP training is to get some hands-on experience in primary care settings, such as GP surgeries, community clinics, or urgent care centres. This will help you develop your clinical skills, communication skills, and understanding of the role of a GP. You can look for opportunities to do taster sessions, locum work, or shadowing in primary care. You can also join the First5 scheme, which is a network of newly qualified GPs who offer support and mentoring to junior doctors interested in general practice: https://www.rcgp.org.uk/first5

- Prepare for the selection process. To get into GP training, you will need to go through a selection process that involves an online application, a computer-based test, and a selection centre. The online application requires you to fill in your personal details, qualifications, work experience, and preferences for training locations. The computer-based test assesses your clinical problem-solving skills and situational judgement skills. The selection centre consists of three simulated scenarios that test your communication skills, empathy, professionalism, and decision-making skills. You can find more information about the selection process and how to prepare for it on the GP National Recruitment Office website: https://gprecruitment.hee.nhs.uk/Recruitment

- Network with other GP trainees and trainers. Another way to prepare for GP training is to network with other GP trainees and trainers who can offer you advice, guidance, and support. You can join online forums, social media groups, or local events where you can meet and interact with other people who are on the same path as you or who have already completed their training. You can also attend webinars, workshops, or conferences that are relevant to general practice and GP training. Some of the organisations that offer these opportunities are:

  - The British Medical Association (BMA): https://www.bma.org.uk/

  - The Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP): https://www.rcgp.org.uk/

  - The Association of Medical Education in Europe (AMEE): https://amee.org/

  - The Society for Academic Primary Care (SAPC): https://sapc.ac.uk/

I hope these tips and resources have been helpful to you and have inspired you to pursue your dream of becoming a GP. GP training is a challenging but rewarding journey that will equip you with the skills and knowledge to provide high-quality care to your patients and communities. I wish you all the best in your preparation and application for GP training!