A taster is a period of time, up to five days, spent in a specialty in which the foundation doctor has not previously worked. Its purpose is to enable the development of insight into the work and ‘lifestyle’ of the specialty and promote careers reflection.
Tasters are primarily for foundation doctors wishing to experience a specialty not in their Foundation Programme. Please note that taster days should where possible be taken within your employing trust unless the chosen specialty is not provided by your trust. Any requests for taster days away from your employing trust will require approval by both your home trust and the trust with which you want to undertake the tasters.
The UKFPO has published guidance aimed at supporting the development of high-quality tasters in each locality of every foundation school Guidance on Specialty Tasters for Foundation Doctors. There are already many examples of good practice in this area and this document aims to support all Foundation Programmes in developing career exploration for their foundation doctors.
Please note – Severn does not currently operate a ‘register’ system for tasters.