Educational Supervisor
The Educational Supervisor is a doctor tasked with overseeing the overall educational progress of the foundation doctor. Their main responsibilities include:
- Setting Learning Objectives: At the start of each placement, the Educational Supervisor works with the doctor to identify learning needs and set clear educational goals.
- Monitoring Progress: Regular meetings and reviews are held to assess progress, ensure continuity between placements, and address any challenges.
- Reporting: At the end of each post and placement, the supervisor completes formal reports documenting the doctor’s achievements and areas for development.
- Record Keeping: Ensures doctors maintain accurate records of assessments and learning activities.
- Liaison: Communicates with Trust Programme Directors about doctor performance and progress.
Educational supervision is a formal, structured process that underpins the doctor’s journey through the Foundation Programme. While the learning is primarily doctor-led, the Educational Supervisor provides guidance, feedback, and support to help doctors meet their objectives.
Clinical Supervisor
The Clinical Supervisor is the professional responsible for the doctor’s experience within each specific placement. Their key duties include:
- Induction: Ensures the doctor receives a thorough introduction to the post, including local policies and procedures.
- Day-to-Day Oversight: Oversees the trainee’s clinical work and training, although some daily supervision may be delegated to other team members.
- Teaching and Supervision: Provides direct teaching and supervision tailored to the doctor’s level of competence and experience.
- Assessment and Reporting: Completes a Clinical Supervisor’s report at the end of each 4-month placement, evaluating the doctor’s performance.
- Supporting Learning Objectives: Facilitates opportunities for the trainee to achieve agreed learning goals.
- Communication: Liaises with the Educational Supervisor if concerns arise regarding the doctor’s performance.
Clinical supervision focuses on the doctor’s practical experience and safety within each placement, ensuring they receive appropriate support and feedback.
Training requirements for supervisors
Each supervisor is required to undergo some specific training and more information can be found on the Faculty Development & Leaner Support (FDLS) Pages
Educational Supervisor Help sheet
Clinical Supervisor Help sheet
Doctors requiring additional support should be discussed with the appropriate FPD. Please also see Professional Support & Wellbeing.