The Specialised Foundation Programme (SFP) allows Foundation doctors to develop their research, teaching and leadership/management skills in addition to the clinical skills developed on the standard programme. It is intended for those who mean to pursue a career in academic medicine or research, or who would like to investigate the possibility, although the skills acquired will also be of benefit across a wide range of clinical careers.
For the Specialised Foundation Programme, there is one Unit of Application (UoA) - West Midlands - which incorporates the West Midlands Central, North and South Foundation Schools
Academic mentorship and formal teaching is provided throughout the Programme by the Universities of Birmingham, Warwick, Keele and Wolverhampton Medical Schools. All SFP trainees will have an academic supervisor.

Application to these posts is via the national online application system Oriel.
For further information on the Specialised Foundation Programme, including eligibility and how to apply please refer to the SFP section of the UKFPO website.
Programmes deliver training for postholders to achieve a range of academic and clinical competencies required by the Curriculum for the Foundation Years in Postgraduate Education and Training and for full registration with the General Medical Council.
Page Updated: August 2024