About Our Partnership
We have worked closely with the University of Buckingham Medical School since its inception in 2015. The University launched its innovative 4.5-year undergraduate medical degree program in 2015, with the first cohort of students qualifying as doctors in 2019. Many of these graduates now work in the NHS.
General practice is a vital component of medical education, offering students a comprehensive understanding of illness and its impact on people. Medical schools aim for half of their graduates to pursue careers as general practitioners (GPs). To achieve this, students are encouraged to spend significant time in general practice, a commitment fully embraced by the University of Buckingham Medical School.
As a practice, we proudly support the following courses:
Narrative Medicine Course
The Narrative Medicine course teaches future doctors to learn from patients and view them as individuals. Students gain valuable insights into the patient’s perspective as they navigate the NHS.
How It Works
- We require 20 to 30 patients annually to participate in this rewarding and enriching program.
- Students will periodically contact participants during the first 18 months of their training, approximately every 3-4 months.
- Students reflect on how your illness affects you and those around you, integrating academic knowledge with real-life experiences.
Key Information
- Students will write an anonymized essay reflecting on your experiences.
- Traditional meetings have been face-to-face (e.g., at your home, a coffee shop, or the surgery). Remote options such as Microsoft Teams or telephone are also available, depending on your preference.
Next Steps
Participation is voluntary and has no impact on your care. To learn more:
- Reply “Yes” to the text message you received or contact our reception.
- We’ll arrange a meeting with Dr. Ben Burgess or Dr. Alison Banks to answer your questions.
- A consent form will need to be signed, and you may withdraw at any time.
- The next cohort begins in January, with initial student contact in February.
Clinical Skills Foundation Course
This course helps students develop essential skills, such as conducting patient-centred consultations, taking medical histories, and performing physical examinations. These sessions integrate theoretical learning with practical experience.
Key Information
- Weekly clinical skills sessions run for either 16 or 32 weeks annually.
- Sessions are held at the practice.
Next Steps
Participation is voluntary and has no impact on your care. To learn more:
- Reply “Yes” to the text message you received or contact our reception.
- We’ll arrange a meeting with Dr. Kate Hill to answer your questions.
- A consent form will need to be signed, and you may withdraw at any time.
- The next cohort begins in April 2025.
Primary Care Block (PCB)
This program allows Year 2 medical students to gain hands-on experience in primary care.
Key Information
- Students attend 3 days per week in the practice.
- Patients will be informed in advance if their appointment will involve a student.
- Consultations will have a designated GP present to support and review outcomes.
- Participation is voluntary, and consent can be withdrawn at any time.
Elderly and Chronic Care (ECC)
This placement allows students to shadow our Care and Support team and other clinicians.
Key Information
- Students observe consultations as part of a 6-week rotational block.
- Participation is voluntary. You can decline a student’s presence at any time without impacting your care.
- ECC students do not assess or comment during consultations.
Get Involved
Your involvement is entirely voluntary and greatly appreciated. If you’re interested in helping with medical training or exploring other opportunities, please contact the Patient Involvement Forum at [email protected].
Thank you for supporting the next generation of doctors!