Last Updated on 08/08/2024
The buddy system
One of the greatest forms of support reported by trainees is that provided by other trainees. Prior to starting the course each member of the new cohort is given the opportunity to be put in touch with a current first or second year who will act as a ‘buddy’ throughout the three years of training.
On starting the programme there is an induction period, where trainees spend time face-to-face at the university for learning. This offers opportunity for peer support. There is normally a minimum of one day’s teaching each week throughout training where the trainee year group may meet, either face-to-face or online. There are also extended teaching blocks at various points that tend to accompany placement changes. This again is an opportunity for peer support during periods of transition. In addition, it is often the case that several trainees will be on placement simultaneously with an individual supervisor or within a particular service. There are also opportunities to establish relationships with trainees from different cohorts through Vertical Tutor Group (VTG) days, Microsoft Teams spaces, and other cross-cohort learning sessions.