Royal Surrey County Hospital NHS FT
Jennifer Williamson, Clinical Scientist Trainee - Nuclear Medicine
Why did you enrol on the IPEM Clinical Scientist Guided Training Scheme?
"I enrolled on the IPEM Clinical Scientist Guided Training Scheme during my Route 2 training towards Clinical Scientist registration with the Association of Clinical Scientists (ACS). I was seeking clearer guidance and structured support throughout the process. As I work in a department that primarily supports STP trainees, I initially found it difficult to judge whether the work I was undertaking was sufficient to demonstrate the required ACS competencies.
After researching available options for support, I discovered the Guided Training Scheme on the IPEM website as a structured way to provide the direction and clarity I was seeking. I was particularly keen to receive guidance on the type of evidence needed to meet ACS standard, as well as ongoing feedback throughout my training to ensure I was progressing appropriately.
I was also attracted by the opportunity for my portfolio being reviewed and experiencing a mock viva. I felt this would provide valuable preparation and reassurance ahead of formal assessment with the ACS."
What support mechanisms within the scheme have been most helpful?
"Overall, the most helpful support mechanism was having a dedicated External Advisor who provided consistent guidance and reassurance throughout my training. It was particularly helpful having my External Advisor review the development of my training plan; providing reassurance that I was working towards the required competencies and providing greater structure to my training.
The annual review meetings were also valuable, as they allowed me to track my progress and identify any gaps in my portfolio. I appreciated having a clear point of contact for advice regarding portfolio development and guidance on what to expect from the viva assessment.
The annual workshops provided useful information on portfolio preparation and viva expectations, and it was beneficial to hear about other trainees experiences of Route 2."
Anne-Marie Stapleton, Consultant Clinical Scientist and Training Supervisor
Why did you enrol Jennifer onto the IPEM Clinical Scientist Guided Training Scheme?
"I supported Jennifer’s enrolment in the Scheme to provide her with more structure and focus in her training as she progress towards qualifying as a Clinical Scientist."
What aspects of the scheme have you found particularly effective?
"It has been particularly effective to have the significant support of, and constructive feedback from, an engaged external advisor as she has worked through developing her experience. The scheme provided her many opportunities she may otherwise not have had. These included visiting another Nuclear Medicine department, networking with other non-STP trainees working towards registration, and having access to tools to assist her in preparing for her portfolio submission and subsequent viva."