Faculty Development

London Deanery Professional Framework for Supervisors

Currently, more than 3000 educational supervisors have engaged in the accreditation process using the London Deanery Professional Development framework, with more than half demonstrating evidence of learning in at least six of the seven domains (London Deanery trainer census 2011). This represents significant progress promoting improved quality of supervision and therefore:

• patient safety
• enhanced quality of care
• more rapid acquisition of trainee knowledge, skills and professional attitudes.

However, to sustain and build on these gains further progress is needed. As part of proposals regarding the recognition and approval of trainers the GMC is proposing to apply the seven areas set out in the Framework for the Professional Development of Postgraduate Medical Supervisors published by the Academy of Medical Educators (2010). The London Deanery Professional Development Framework is entirely consistent with that of the Academy of Medical Educators.

The 2012 edition of the London Deanery Professional Development Framework has been updated to highlight its alignment with the GMC proposals, including the need for recognition and approval of named (i.e. formally identified) clinical supervisors. This edition includes updates on: the selection and reaccreditation of supervisors; the development of local faculty development programmes in London Deanery Trusts; and a structured portfolio for both named clinical and educational supervisors.

The framework is designed around seven key areas of activity, all of which relate to the role of the postgraduate supervisor
 

The seven areas are: 

• Ensuring safe and effective patient care
• Establishing and maintaining an environment for learning
• Teaching and facilitating learning
• Enhancing learning though assessment
• Supporting and monitoring educational progress
• Guiding personal and professional development
• Continuing professional development as an educator  

All named clinical and educational supervisors should be selected for the role and their name, contact details and training recorded on a database at the Trust.  This is usually held at the postgraduate centre.  Named clinical and educational supervisors should be able to demonstrate that they have been trained in all areas of the Professional Development Framework. Training once undertaken - with the exception of equalities and diversity - need not be repeated. Named clinical and educational supervisors are required to take part in a three-yearly cycle of portfolio-based review providing evidence of their on-going professional development as educators.

Full details about the London Deanery’s Professional Development Framework and all supporting documents are available from the menu bar on the left.  Information about Trust-based training courses and local arrangements for accreditation and review can be obtained from local postgraduate medical education centres.