Preferencing without league tables
How to compare Paediatrics training programmes
A training region is a seven-year relationship on the usual pathway. Compare the actual rotation network and support rather than relying on a hospital's brand.
Geography and rotation footprint
Map hospitals, community bases, tertiary centres, travel at night and the likelihood of moving home. A broad region can offer varied training while creating a substantial commute.
DGH and tertiary balance
DGH work often builds broad decision-making and transfer skills; tertiary centres add rare disease, technology and specialist teams. Ask how the programme deliberately provides both rather than assuming one setting is superior.
Acute, neonatal and community breadth
Ask when trainees obtain neonatal and community capabilities, whether children's ED is separate, how ambulatory care works and which placements prepare trainees to step onto the registrar rota.
On-call structure and supervision
Compare SHO and registrar responsibilities, neonatal cross-cover, resident consultant patterns, retrieval links, induction, escalation and how rota gaps are managed. Speak to current trainees about what happens in practice.
Teaching, exams and feedback
Look for protected regional teaching, simulation, MRCPCH support, educational-supervisor continuity and evidence that trainee feedback changes placements. Ask how missed teaching is handled after nights or service pressure.
LTFT, wellbeing and leave
Ask how LTFT rotas, parental leave, return to training, professional support and annual leave work across employers. Policy wording matters less than reliable local implementation.
Research, QI and special interests
Check regional trainee research networks, academic programmes, QI infrastructure, tertiary exposure and later access to competitive subspecialty or SPIN experience. Do not select a region solely for an interest you have not explored.
From understanding to practice
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