Background: The New Principals Course

For the last five years the Section has offered new GP principals the opportunity to apply for the Welsh Higher Professional Education Course for New GP Principals.  This course recognises that newly qualified GPs have specific development needs to make the transition from GP registrar to GP principal.  The course has been run on the basis of residential modules and has been extremely well attended and well received.  Feedback from delegates has been overwhelmingly positive.

Review for 2006

For 2006, we are reviewing the format of the course in line with our new Continuing Professional Development (CPD) strategy[1].  The New Principals Course will therefore not be continuing in its current form after its final module in November 2005. 

When we re-launch the programme in 2006 we will build on the demonstrable success of the existing course.  We aim to offer a programme of high quality, appropriate CPD for new GPs which recognises their specific development needs but is open and inclusive.  Delivery may therefore be on a regional rather than residential basis.

Other sources of CPD

While the review is being undertaken, new GPs are invited to take advantage of local and regional programmes offered by the Section’s CPD Co-ordinators.  These programmes cover a range of topics which should be relevant to all GPs. 

CPD Co-ordinators are also available to offer one-to-one advice and guidance on personal and professional development.  The appraisal process will also provide a good opportunity for GPs to reflect on learning needs and plan personal and professional development to ensure a smooth transition from GP Registrar to independent practitioner.

Further information

Updated information about the new format of the New Principals Course will be posted on PCW website and in the ‘News’ section of the website.

Further information about the New Principals Course or about other CPD provision, including contact details for CPD Co-ordinators, can be obtained from Helen Baynham who can be contacted at baynhamhi@cf.ac.uk / 029 20745538.