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Choose paediatrics

Sometimes tough, but always rewarding - there's no job quite like paediatrics. Whether you're just thinking about a medical career or are ready to apply for specialty training, explore our top tips, blogs and videos and see how you can #ChoosePaediatrics
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For medical students

Curious about paediatrics as a career? You can get some early experience of our specialty while at med school - join your local paediatric society, attend a careers event, consider your elective or speak with your friendly and local paediatrician. Plus our annual prize awards!
For medical students
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For foundation doctors

If paediatric training is looking like your next step, we explain what to expect from a rotation or 'taster week', who to speak to and where to find resources to help make an informed decision in applying to paediatrics. Plus some tips to start preparing your application.
For foundation doctors

Training: a world of opportunities

You can take your career in the direction that suits you - including academia, research and sub-specialty training, flexible working and other experiences. Our innovative, capability-based curriculum, Progress+ equips you with the skills needed as a consultant paediatrician.
About training
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Our careers booklet explains more...

Packed with information about your career in paediatrics - from how recruitment works to the varied options in the specialty. Plus ideas on taking advantage of your free RCPCH membership as a medical student or foundation student!

View or download our booklet
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Are you a new ST1 trainee?

We have all the tools and tips you need to know to kickstart your paediatric journey. With a handy checklist for your first month and a jargon buster!
ST1 guide

Careers blogs

More careers blogs
ChoosePaediatrics- Steps to your paediatric journey
Blog
25 September 2023

Your journey into paediatrics begins here - preparing for the ST1 interview

Applications for next year's Specialty Training 1 (ST1) posts in paediatrics open in late October, with interviews in early 2024. It's not too soon to start your prep, and our Officer for Recruitment and Trainee Representative for Recruitment have teamed up to give you essential updates and tips.
Photo of Faro Ndokera
Blog
3 May 2023

Longitudinal educational supervision - how it's worked for me

All trainee-supervisor relationships come with their own styles and occasional challenges, says Dr Faro Ndokera, a paediatrician in sub-specialty training. But having the same educational supervisor over a longer period offers greater focus and meaning - and a personal touch.
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How to apply for paediatrics

Most doctors enter paediatric training at Specialty Training 1, or ST1, and this is called National Round 1. ST3 posts may also be available in the national recruitment year; this is called National Round 2. 

We explain how to prepare your application and interviews.

Applying for training at ST1
Applying for training at ST3

"Always an exciting time to enter paediatrics"

In 2020 and during the COVID-19 pandemic, we asked some paediatricians about their experiences and what inspired them to #ChoosePaediatrics...
Watch video

"Everybody has as much energy as you do"

Three young people put some doctors to the test! Filmed in 2019, they grilled them about the most important qualities, who they work with and how they get through the tough times.
Watch video

"There are hard days, but those make me a better doctor"

Also in 2019, eight paediatricians shared their motivations for choosing this specialty - from seeing variety to enjoying children's curiosity - and that while it's never easy it's often fun.
Watch video
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See all #ChoosePaediatrics videos

Our online sessions for medical students, foundation doctors and paediatric trainees explore careers in paediatrics. We explain the recruitment process and training pathway, and trainees and consultants around the country tell us what it's really like. Plus delegates are invited to ask those tricky questions...

Our playlist on YouTube has the recordings of all our online sessions.  

Our #ChoosePaediatrics playlist on YouTube