The programme is recruited as "run-through" training, with entry at ST1 leading to CCT at ST8 with satisfactory progression. There is direct competitive entry into ST1 from FY2.

Opportunities for advanced sub-speciality training of all branches of Orthopaedic surgery exist including: hand surgery, spinal surgery, paediatric surgery, limb reconstruction surgery and tumour surgery.

The first two years are spent gaining experience in generic surgical skills and knowledge. While always based primarily in orthopaedics, trainees will rotate into three months each of intensive care and plastic surgery.

During years 3 to 6, our trainees rotate through a modular programme with eight six month placements covering general orthopaedic and trauma surgery, arthroplasty, tumour surgery, paediatrics, hand, spine and foot and ankle surgery.

After sitting the fellowship examination in ST7, opportunity exists for more advanced training in areas of special interest before completion of training and award of CCT at the end of year 8.

There are ample opportunities to carry out research and audit in the South East of Scotland, and the region is renowned as a powerhouse of academic output. We have close ties with the University of Edinburgh and Napier University, and multiple trainees have taken part at all levels of research from small projects through to PhD's in basic science, translational and clinical research. Research is actively encouraged both within programme and on an out of programme basis and trainees are encouraged to produce two papers each year during their training. There is an annual Registrar Research Day, generally held at RIE.

A structured teaching programme is delivered on a regional basis. This consists of a full day once a month and attendance is compulsory, with trainees released from clinical duties to attend. Teaching for ST1-3's is delivered separately from ST3+. Regional and national speakers are invited to attend and there are also opportunities for dry bone workshops and simulated training. Each hospital also delivered a local teaching programme, usually on a weekly basis. Every year a full mock FRCS exam is carried out for those at ST3 and above and includes multiple choice, vivas and clinicals spread over two days.

We have close ties with the Anatomy Department allowing for multiple anatomy sessions both as part of the structured teaching programme and on an ad hoc basis as required by specific trainees. Every year Edinburgh hosts an International Trauma Symposiums and trainees are encouraged to attend.

All trainees and trainers are expected to follow our Ways of Working (WoW!) below: