Glasgow
Where did you perform your fellowship post and for how long?
Royal Hospital for Children, Glasgow – 6 months
The 12-month fellowship is 9 months theatres and 3 months PICU, however, due to family circumstances I did 6 months in theatres and a short placement with ScotSTAR.
How did you arrange the fellowship (what drew you to that fellowship? who did you contact? if out of the country what other logistical difficulties were there?)
I wanted to stay in the UK and had heard positive feedback from colleagues who had worked in the department. I fortunately knew two trainees who were now consultants in Glasgow and organised a visit to the department before completing an application several months later.
Was the fellowship well organised?
Yes. The departmental secretary and college tutors ensured that all the necessary paperwork and computer access was sorted before starting. The induction was comprehensive and covered all the information needed to start my role.
What were the positives?
Good mix of independent and supervised practice. Wide range of specialities, including cardiac and neurosurgery. The consultants were supportive, friendly and approachable. We were encouraged to contribute to projects and local teaching, which helped embellish my CV. The nursing staff were excellent, and I felt very welcome from the outset. I thoroughly enjoyed my time in the department and would highly recommend this fellowship to those seeking a career in paediatric anaesthesia.
What were the negatives?
It was tiring, but this was overwhelmingly outweighed by the clinical experience and knowledge I gained.
Did it prepare you well for your future consultant career?
What advice would you give to someone considering a fellowship there?
Seek opportunities during training to build paediatric anaesthesia projects and experience into your CV. Make contact with the department and organise a visit.
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