Non-urgent advice: Introduction
The Foundation Programme (FP) curriculum, which underpins the training and professional development of newly graduated doctors, has been revised for the 2026 training year, following publication of a fully refreshed version in summer 2021. The curriculum sets out a holistic approach to care including physical health, mental health and social health and the skills required to manage this in both acute and community settings and for patients with chronic conditions. Foundation doctors must demonstrate that they are competent in the practice of medicine as defined by the GMC in Good Medical Practice. The curriculum provides a framework for educational progression that will help them achieve these skills and supports them through the first two years of professional development after graduation from medical school.
Academy of Medical Royal Colleges (AoMRC) statement on the 2026 Revision
“The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges is pleased to support the launch of this revised Foundation Programme curriculum. This was developed through our Foundation Programme Committee and consulted on with a range of stakeholders. The curriculum is common to all UK foundation doctors, who are at the start of their medical career. It therefore plays a vital role in supporting the transition from medical student to doctor and in preparing foundation doctors to deliver safe, compassionate and effective care. This revision updates key areas of the curriculum to reflect developments in healthcare practice, with a strengthened emphasis on generalist practice, patient safety, inclusivity and sustainability. It also reinforces the importance of fairer training cultures and of equipping foundation doctors with the capabilities they need to meet the needs of patients and the health service across the UK.” Dr Jeanette Dickson MBChB MSc MD FRCP FRCR, Chair of Council, Academy of Medical Royal Colleges [July 2026]
UKFPO statement on the 2026 Revision
“UKFPO welcomes the launch of the revised Foundation Programme curriculum and the clarity it provides for Foundation doctors and those who support them in their training and in their professional practice. The revisions strengthen the curricular focus on patient safety, generalist practice and fairer training cultures, while keeping the overall framework familiar and workable for foundation doctors, educators, supervisors and local programme teams. For educators and managers, this provides an updated framework for teaching, supervision and assessment that reflects current healthcare priorities without changing the core structure of the programme. UKFPO will continue to support implementation through national guidance, resources and engagement with foundation schools and local teams.” Dr Mike Masding, UKFPO National Clinical Director [July 2026]
UKFP Curriculum 2021 (2026 Revision) Introduction webinar
The recording of the UKFP Curriculum 2021 (2026 Revision) Introduction webinar on 2 July 2026 will be available here shortly.