Lifelong careers in paediatrics

Paediatrics is a rewarding but challenging specialty. 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 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

Across the country paediatricians are doing excellent work and are passionate about improving the working lives of colleagues.

Thrive Paediatrics is building on this energy. We're developing communities of paediatricians to share stories and, with our roadmap, make positive, lasting change.

About Thrive Paediatrics

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 built a vision of the future workforce

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

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

Career support service

Each of us faces questions, dilemmas, even big problems in relation to our career... Our service, free to members, provides personal career guidance through a network of advisors.

Career support service

Thinking about retirement

For many, retirement is a celebration of life’s work, and an opportunity for a new chapter. Senior members of the College share their experiences and advice - from managing your workload before retirement to developing a sense of fulfilment afterwards.

Thinking about retirement hub

Member blogs and updates on wellbeing

More blogs by members

Blog

25 September 2023

Thank you goes a long way

When Jess received a brief note of gratitude from a colleague, she decided to pay it forward, and the ripples began to spread. Taking three minutes to recognise someone's effort can make them feel valued - and feel seen.

President's blog

22 September 2023

Making the case for prevention - President's blog

In a difficult week for the NHS, Camilla highlights a major new report on 'Securing our healthy future: Prevention is better than cure', endorsed by 24 members of the Academy of Royal Medical Colleges. She also reflects on what is next for Martha's Rule and shares news of our first Thrive Paediatric...

President's blog

8 September 2023

Where we go next - President's blog

Camilla reminds colleagues of the forthcoming AGM and the recruitment processes for the next President and Treasurer. She also reflects on a particularly challenging time for the profession as a whole.