Keele University Prospectus Undergraduate | 2016 | Page 163

All new medical graduates in the UK should
undertake the foundation programme. These
programmes are run by foundation schools that
cover geographic areas (such as Staffordshire).
The foundation programmes run nationally but
delivery may differ a little between foundation
schools. The usual model is to undertake six
four-month attachments in different specialties
over the two years to attain a wide range of
competencies. There is an opportunity for students
to choose their desired geographical location in
which to undertake their foundation programme
as well as some choice of specialties. However,
applications are competitive so first choice locations
and specialties are preferentially given to the
better candidates.
Applications to the main foundation programmes
occur at the beginning of the fifth year. Help is
provided in applying for these posts by the careers
liaison co-ordinator, who has strong links with the
postgraduate foundation schools. Locally, the West
Midlands Workforce Deanery is active in supporting
trainees in the West Midlands to pursue their suited
career and the career pages of the website contain
details and podcasts of careers in various specialties.
www.westmidlandsdeanery.nhs.uk
Vocational training and education continues
throughout professional life, and further
postgraduate training is provided through recognised
training schemes leading to the award of a Certificate
of Completion of Training (CCT). Attainment of a CCT
allows the individual to apply for senior positions,
such as consultant posts or general practice
partnerships. These schemes vary in duration from
three to seven years, commencing on successful
completion of the foundation programme. It is crucial
that students think about which speciality route they
would like to follow as early as they possibly can.
Important career decisions have to be made within
two years of graduation and successful application
to speciality training posts is more likely if students
and trainees have structured their learni