Value-Added Day Release Course

Professor Johnny Lyon-Maris, Dr Jonathan Rial, Dr Samantha Scallan, Dr Kelly Thresher

Background
The introduction of the nMRCGP, and in particular the CSA (Clinical Skills Assessment) component, has seen a shift in teaching on the Day Release Course (DRC) towards preparing trainees for the assessment. This has further been compounded by the perceptions of need of those failing the exam.  During the Specialist Trainee Year 3 DRC trainees have historically worked within a small group which they remain in throughout the year.  It was noted by the group facilitators that trainees passing the CSA found themselves in groups with trainees who continued to want to practice skills in preparation for the CSA, creating a mismatch in learning needs.

Summary of Work

After the February CSA diet results were published, the groups were rearranged to take account of those who had passed.  The trainees who had not passed continued to focus on communication skills.  For those passing, five sessions of ‘value added’ small group work were planned.  The sessions were led by the trainees and included:

• Planning
• Alternative medicine
• A topical debate
• Exploring careers
• Faith in Healthcare

Findings
The sessions were evaluated through feedback from the trainees.  In particular we will focus on establishing and developing the learning needs of the trainees as they approach the end of their training, and their perceptions of their learning needs. In addition we will consider whether the trainees perceive that they have developed other skills such as facilitation, planning, management and negotiation.