Flexible Training
The ABiGS is supportive of flexible surgical training and the benefits that may bring – regardless of gender. It increases diversity in the surgical workforce and increases the appeal of General Surgery as a career pathway. It also offers trainees the chance to broaden their focus and pursue wider interests while training.
The ABiGS along with the Training Committees acknowledges the complexities involved in arranging flexible posts; they are committed in supporting trainees as much as they can in ensuring suitable arrangements can be met for both trainees and accredited training posts / hospitals. Further information can be found below on organising a flexible training post, and as always we recommend you consult your supervisors, trainee representatives, training committee chairs, and executive regional officers for advice and guidance.
RACSTA via the College also has valuable information published here, and you can download the RACS Flexible Training Toolkit here.
Trainees interested in setting up flexible training are advised to undertake the following steps:
- Familiarise yourself with the relevant section of the SET / GSET training Regulations
- Discuss your preference and training outcomes with your supervisor / hub supervisor
- Make contact with the hospital offering an accredited flexible training post (further details below) and flag your intention
- Submit a formal request for part time training via the relevant training system – TMS or TIMS
How Do I Arrange Flexible Training?
Accredited Flexible Training Posts
To assist trainees interested in a flexible training arrangement, please refer to the below list of hospitals that offer suitable posts.
Please note that the list is not exhaustive – whilst a hospital may not appear below, this does not necessarily mean they are unable to offer flexible training. It is recommended you speak with supervisors for guidance on posts not listed below.
A/Prof Kellee Slater – Consultant General Surgeon – has put together the following guide to ‘Pregnancy and Surgical Training’.
As a mother of four children, Kellee shares her firsthand experience and advise to those considering parenthood during training from interruption to training, financial matters, practicalities of training while pregnant, maternity leave, and returning to training.