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

Specialist, Associate Specialist and Specialty (SAS) doctors are a diverse group with a range of skills and experience. We cover the need to know about this career pathway in paediatrics, plus how to support your SAS colleagues.

SAS careers information

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

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

Thrive Paediatrics

This College programme aims to improve your working lives. The 'Roadmap' helps identify what can help local paediatricians thrive at work. We have regular events, send emails to interested members and share stories.

Thrive Paediatrics

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

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

Montage of photos from RCPCH and paediatrics over the past 30 years, with 30 in boxes

Blog

31 July 2026

Your Paediatrics, Your Future: Building a culture of support

Dr Fatimah Unar reflects on the rewards and challenges of a career in paediatric emergency medicine, and how creating a supportive team culture helps colleagues navigate the most difficult moments in child health care.

Blog

26 June 2026

Your Paediatrics, Your Future: Advice to new paediatric professionals

To celebrate our 30th birthday, we asked members of the paediatric community to reflect on their experiences and share their stories, including one piece of advice they'd give to new paediatric professionals. Here's what they had to say...

Blog

2 June 2026

Your Paediatrics, Your Future: My name means hope

Dr Umit Gultekin recalls a moment in his career where he cared for a critically unwell child, and supported their family through a difficult decision about specialist care. Years later he saw the boy again, a moment that reminded him why he chose paediatrics.