Teaching & Professional Development

Training in ophthalmology extends beyond clinical and surgical competence. Throughout the BST programme, trainees are expected to develop the broader professional skills required for effective specialist practice.

Trainees will participate in weekly structured teaching, presentations, audit and quality improvement, research and scholarly activity, alongside opportunities to develop skills in communication, teamwork, leadership and medical education.

Trainees are also strongly encouraged to participate in regional and international ophthalmology meetings, courses and conferences. These provide valuable opportunities to broaden clinical knowledge, learn from developments beyond the local training environment, present academic work and build professional networks with colleagues across the region and internationally.

Active participation in departmental teaching and continuing professional development is expected throughout R1–R3. Trainees should maintain evidence of relevant activities within their training portfolio and CME logbook as part of their overall record of progression.

The programme aims to develop ophthalmologists who are not only clinically and surgically competent, but also reflective practitioners, effective teachers, lifelong learners and active members of the wider ophthalmic community.