Flexible Portfolio Training (FPT) protects 20% of working time for the development of a non-clinical pathway for doctors within a specialty training programme. It was born our of work to improve flexibility for doctors in training, aiming to positively impact your quality of life and prevent burnout, whilst also adding to work that directly improves patient care and services.
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Can I hear from someone who has worked in an FPT role?
How does FPT work?
FPT is designed to compliment clinical training and works alongside your established training programme. Those undertaking FPT will have 20% of their working time protected to work on a project that aligns with one of the four programme pathways: medical education, clinical informatics, research, or clinical service improvement. Previous FPT doctors have worked a wide variety of interesting projects, from creating new education programmes to making a start on higher level research.
Full information on the programme is available here.
Who can do FPT?
FPT is open to all postgraduate specialties and grades above foundation. This is with the exception of psychiatry, as resident doctors in this specialty already have 20% of their week set aside for development activities.
How long do FPT posts last?
As a standard FPT is completed for 12 months, however it can be continued for multiple years with Trust and local office agreement.
Will FPT extend my training?
It is not expected to increase the length of your training. This will however be reviewed regularly for each individual, just as it is within the normal training structure.
Will my pay change?
In most cases your on call commitments will remain the same meaning your pay will not be impacted.
How do I apply?
If you are interested in pursuing FPT, then you need to:
- Discuss with your Trust contact and confirm that they will allow you 20% time to do FPT
- Find an FPT supervisor (this is an individual in addition to your existing supervisor who has expertise in the theme you will be following)
- Develop a project outline
- Gain permission from your Training Programme Director and Head of School
- Complete the application form
The process is outlined in detail in our local information guide which can be found here. The application form can be accessed here.
Can I hear from someone who has worked in an FPT role?
One of our previous KSS flexible portfolio trainees, Dr Hannah May, has answered some questions on the programme:
What has your FPT role involved?
Enhance is a programme that aims to improve generalist skills in healthcare professionals. My role has been to work with our local trailblazer site to help introduce the programme to their foundation doctors. Part of my role has been using these experiences to create an SOP and a guide for supervisors to help us roll out enhance across the region.
Another element of my role has been to work with our regional enhance team. This has given me a brilliant insight into how Health Education England introduce a new educational programme. Having the opportunity to shape plans for the region, along with giving a trainee perspective in these conversations has been invaluable.“
How have you found your role?
“Being a FPT has been an excellent experience. It has allowed me to pursue my interest in education and management with formal support from my region. The role has also afforded me the opportunity to meet other educators with similar interests and build links with likeminded trainees at a similar level. This has opened many interesting opportunities; to filming lectures in London, to attending a symposium on managing complexity in Glasgow!”
How have you found managing your clinical and FPT work?
“The programme has not been without challenges. Balancing my clinical and non-clinical work has sometimes been difficult. One day a week can pass by very quickly, and it has required a significant level of organisation and flexibility that my hospital work alone has not required.
But being tested in this way has also been beneficial. Being a FPT has given me an awareness of what hybrid working might feel like as a consultant. Having the opportunity to understand the challenges that come with this, and working on the strategies to manage them, has been extremely helpful.”
Would you recommend an FPT post to other doctors in training?
“Yes! It’s a great way to add variety to your role. It is a fantastic way to build practical, real word skills that will help you as a consultant.
Frequently Asked Questions
I am a GP Trainee, am I eligible for FPT?
Currently flexible portfolio training is not available to GP trainees in the region. However, there are a variety of specific fellowship and flexibility options which can be explored further here.
Is there a deadline for application to FPT?
It is important to ensure any alterations to rota and service can be made within your department, therefore your FPT application AND subsequent Dean approval need to be complete 6 weeks prior to your start date.
Is FPT for 12 months or the entirety of my training?
Flexible portfolio training is approved for a 12-month period. Many people will move to a different hospital each year and if you wish to continue as an FPT, further agreement with the Trust you will be in, and completion of the application with TPD and Head of School agreement will need to be resubmitted.
For any further queries please contact Dr Ruth Silverton, Postgraduate Associate Dean: ruth.silverton1@nhs.net