Lifelong careers in paediatrics

Paediatrics is a rewarding but challenging specialty. Our fill rates are up, but encouraging people to choose paediatrics isn't enough. We're committed to supporting you at every stage, from training and beyond. Find out more about the work we're doing around workforce, rota gaps and wellbeing, and hear from other paediatricians about what helps them.

For trainees

Written by current trainees, this guide covers the essential elements on what to expect from your training post, and examples of good practice that showcase how different centres across the UK look after their trainees.

Trainee toolkit

For SAS doctors

Staff Grade, Associate Specialist and Specialty (SAS) doctors play important roles in general paediatrics and community child health. We support on training and education, plus representation through the SAS Committee.

SAS doctors guidance

For consultants

As a consultant or other career-grade doctor, you may have a varied career path in paediatrics - such as a 'portfolio career' or less than full time working, volunteering overseas or taking a career break. We look at the varied options.

Career development guidance

Introducing Thrive Paediatrics - a framework for wellbeing, agency and sustainable staffing

This new programme of work will support paediatric clinicians to thrive and improve their lived experiences at work through the definition of workforce standards, developing a process for peer review and establishing the momentum for positive changes through regional communities of practice.

With funding from the Dinwoodie Charitable Company for pilot schemes.

More about this programme

Thank you from RCPCH &Us

"We are all so grateful because of you..."

"You are helpful, kind, caring and professional"

We've been speaking with children and young people about their experiences with the NHS - have a look at what they have to say!.

Their messages

What we're doing on workforce issues and rota gaps

Our #ChoosePaediatrics programme encourages more people into this career

Our workforce census gathers data across the UK

Our Paediatrics 2040 programme has built a vision of the future workforce

We collect insight and case studies from members on managing winter planning

We produce detailed service and clinical guidance on COVID-19

Your wellbeing

It is so important to take care of yourself as a healthcare professional. College members across the UK recommend some useful wellbeing resources and share their experiences.

Wellbeing resources and stories

Looking after yourself

To identify how best you learn, develop critical thinking and improve your clinical practice, you can engage in regular reflection. We offer key tips and look at self-care, especially for trainees.

Looking after yourself good practice

What's next with training

Live from summer 2023, Progress+ builds on the current curriculum for specialty paediatric training, and will be flexible and fulfilling.

About Progress+

More support for your wellbeing

See our work in equality, diversity and inclusion

Watch our short films on how paediatricians manage stress

Read our Trainee Charter

Find out about Stepping up - our programme for new consultants

Access our career support service

See blogs and resources for thinking about retirement

Member blogs and updates on wellbeing

More blogs by members

President's blog

14 April 2023

Precious commodity of hope - President's blog

Camilla reflects on a week of the most significant industrial action ever taken by doctors in the NHS. She signposts the College's industrial action resources as well as reminding members of some opportunities to apply for mentoring and to feed into the GMC National Training Survey.

President's blog

3 February 2023

Celebrating unsung heroes – President’s blog

In a tough week for the child health agenda in the UK, Camilla encourages us to continue to advocate on children's behalf. She also shares her gratitude for the efforts of some of our overseas partners and our subspecialty groups.

President's blog

20 January 2023

Sharing excellence from across the UK - President's blog

Camilla reflects on a particularly inspiring trip to Northern Ireland and gears up for the year ahead. She also encourages colleagues to share their brilliant work at this year’s annual conference.