Requirements of GP Supervisors

There are two types of GP Supervisors:

  • Level 1 GP Supervisors: These Supervisors are accredited to train Registrars in any stage of training (GP Terms 1 to 3, also known as basic, advanced and subsequent terms), with requirements to provide substantial teaching and supervision for Registrars in GP Terms 1 & 2 (basic and advanced terms). GP Supervisors must first gain experience as a Level 2 Supervisor before they can be approached to become a Level 1 trainer.
  • Level 2 GP Supervisors are accredited to supervise more experienced Registrars who are in their GP term 3 (subsequent/mentor term) with fewer teaching and supervision requirements than their Level 1 counterparts.

Newly accredited Supervisors will start as Level 2 GP Supervisors taking Registrars in their GP term 3-4 stage of training who have already had  12 months FTE of GP experience. After a Supervisor has had a GP term 3 Registrar they may  be approached to become a Level 1 Supervisor.
As a Level 2 Supervisor you are required to:-

  • Be available for clinical guidance and support for the GP Registrar.  The Registrar must always be able to contact the Supervisor if necessary, and the GP Supervisor must be on site with the Registrar at least some of the time.
  • Set aside one hour every week for a full time Registrar (half an hour for a part time Registrar) to discuss cases and topics, and review the Registrar's performance and development as a GP. 
  • Spend some time in activities which develop your skills as a clinical teacher including attending an orientation workshop and other GP Supervisor professional development activities.
  • Participate in assessment activities of the Registrar
  • Assist the GP Registrar develop and review their learning plan.
  • Agree to and conform to the national terms and conditions document for Registrar placements (see website).

These requirements are not onerous and in fact contribute to the Registrar becoming an effective member of the practice team (and are a great way for the Supervisor to ensure the Registrar is providing a high level of service to patients of the practice).