Produced as part of a UKFPO Fellow Project on improving access to self-development time (SDT). If you have any questions about the project, please contact ward.devon.99@gmail.com.
What is SDT?
SDT is time for foundation doctors to work on professional development and non-clinical duties to become well-rounded clinicians and study the foundation curriculum that aren’t best suited to developing within the clinical environment.
What should SDT be used for?
SDT includes but is not limited to formal and informal meetings with educational or clinical supervisors, updating e-Portfolio, delivering teaching, carrying out quality improvement and career exploration.
A full list for intended uses of SDT can be found on the UKFPO website under ‘The Clinical Supervisor > Self-development time’
How much SDT should I get in my foundation school?
Foundation doctors in XXX should get X hours per week of SDT. This can be collated and taken as several whole or half days per rotation, or another similar arrangement.
Who organises SDT in my hospital?
Name and email or alternatively the role within the specialty, for example “the rota coordinator for the specialty you are working in”
Who should I contact if I’m not getting my SDT?
Name and email or alternatively a clear hierarchy, eg “initially, the rota coordinator in your specialty. Then, your ES, then your GSW”
Download a set of customisable, printable SDT infographics [pptx, 215KB].The document has:
- Example completed template.
- Non-complete template, generic (that is, the information on this webpage).
- Non-complete template, England. Red to be completed by the trust.
- Non-complete template, Wales. Red to be completed by the trust.
- Non-complete template, Northern Ireland. Red to be completed by the trust.