1. M Y EXPERIENCE OF THE A CADEMIC F OUNDATION P ROGRAMME An overview of my AFP project: The Academic Foundation Programme (AFP) in Wales: a review of trainee and supervisor expectations, experiences and outcomes. Emma Froment, Academic Foundation Doctor, Wales. January 2014

2. I APPROACHED MY SUPERVISOR WITH THE BACKGROUND TO MY PROJECT Little published national data on doctor experiences of the Academic Foundation Programme. No local review in Wales of academic foundation posts since they were established four years earlier. National surveys were not distinguishing between academic and clinical posts when asking about foundation trainee experiences. 1 2 3

3. I WORKED WITH MY SUPERVISOR TO CONDUCT THE PROJECT Identification of themes and analysed using framework analysis Structured workshop with educational and clinical supervisors and current academic trainees to present findings and plan changes. Interviews with previous trainees and supervisors.

4. Nearly all trainees enjoyed the post Trainees were universally unsure of what to expect in terms of aims, resources available and expected outcomes Trainees were concerned about the lack of clinical exposure during their academic block Mismatch between trainee and supervisor expectations of prior research knowledge R ESULTS (1) 1 2 3 4

5. Trainees were keen to have dedicated tutorials on research skills Trainees often missed their dedicated academic time due to clinical workload Clinical colleagues felt that academic trainees were having ‘days off’ when they were undertaking research Trainees and supervisors felt frustrated if a publication/presentation was not achieved by the end of the year. R ESULTS (2) 6 7 8 5

6. T HE RESULTS CHANGED THE DELIVERY OF THE WALES AFP An induction booklet was circulated to trainees prior to starting the post Explanation provided to all clinical teams regarding the role of an academic foundation doctor Introduction of a tutorial programme for all academic foundation doctors on research skills. Introduction of regular meetings within the academic unit to bring together all academic trainees and supervisors Regular presentation slot in grand rounds to share progress and role of academic trainees with hospital staff

7. Complete a project in a field that really interests you Always ask for help and support. A ND F INALLY I HAVE TWO KEY PIECES OF ADVICE FOR FUTURE ACADEMIC FOUNDATION DOCTORS 1 2