Foundation Regional Induction Day 2026

Northern Ireland Medical and Dental Training Agency (NIMDTA) successfully hosted it's annual Foundation Regional Induction Day on Thursday 30 July 2026 at Assembly Buildings, Belfast.

This flagship event marked an important milestone for newly appointed Foundation Year 1 (F1) doctors as they prepare to begin their medical careers across Northern Ireland's five Health and Social Care Trusts. NIMDTA looks forward to supporting all 363 Foundation Year 1 doctors throughout their training journey as they develop the skills, knowledge and professional behaviours required for a successful medical career.

The day commenced with a welcome and introductions from Dr Lorraine Parks, Director of Foundation Training at NIMDTA, followed by an opening address from Professor Sir Michael McBride, Chief Medical Officer for Northern Ireland. The programme provided essential guidance, practical insights and professional support to help new doctors transition confidently into clinical practice.

Dr Lorraine Parks, Director of Foundation Training at NIMDTA, said:
"Today is one of the most important days in the calendar for NIMDTA and the wider HSC, when we welcome our new medical colleagues to Northern Ireland. It is always a really enjoyable and rewarding day, providing an opportunity for all new F1 doctors to meet and interact with each other, their supervisors and other HSC staff involved in their training. We hope today marks the start of a rewarding medical career for all of these doctors, as they contribute to the provision of  high quality healthcare for the population of NI for a long time to come. "

The event was attended by members of the NIMDTA Senior Management Team and Board, demonstrating the organisation's commitment to supporting and engaging with doctors at the very start of their training. The day also provided valuable opportunities for networking and collaboration, with high levels of engagement from attendees throughout the day.

Morning Sessions

Highlights from the morning programme included:

• Foundation Training in Northern Ireland presented by Dr Lorraine Parks.
• Medication Safety, delivered by Ms Angela Carrington, Lead Pharmacist for Medication Safety, HSC Northern Ireland.
• Patient Discharge Summaries, presented by Dr Kathryn Potter, Associate Director of GP Specialty Training.
• Actions Following a Patient's Death, delivered by Dr Gail Browne, Independent Medical Examiner.
• Top Tips for Foundation Training, featuring practical advice from current Foundation Doctors Dr James Martin and Dr Elizabeth Wilkins.
• Introduction to the Single Lead Employer (SLE), delivered by Mr Sean McErlean.
• Interactive Hospital Workshops led by Foundation Programme Directors, Supervisors, and current F1 and F2 doctor representatives.

Afternoon Sessions

The afternoon programme focused on professional development and wellbeing, featuring:

• An overview of the UK Foundation Programme Curriculum and Learning Opportunities, delivered by Dr Ruth Eakin, Foundation School Deputy Director.
• Session on the TURAS Foundation ePortfolio, including a demonstration from Dr Nicole Gormley (F2 Doctor).
• Guidance on the use of SCRIPT Pharmacology e-learning by Dr Abbie Kirk (F1 Doctor).
• Guidance on the Foundation Annual Review of Competence Progression (ARCP) from Ms Lynn Wilson, Foundation School Deputy Director.
• A Professional Support and Wellbeing session led by Dr Mary Murnaghan, Associate Dean for Professional Support and Wellbeing.
• An introduction to Foundation Representatives and the role they play regionally and nationally, by Dr Oran McGilly (F2 Doctor).
• Presentations on F1 Placement Quality Key Standards and GMC Professionalism Guidance, delivered by Dr Sally Anne Phillips and Ms Angela Press.

The event concluded with feedback and closing remarks from Mr Mark McCarey, Chief Executive of NIMDTA, who reaffirmed the organisation's commitment to supporting Foundation Doctors throughout their training journey. He highlighted the importance of continued engagement, learning and professional development, and wished the new cohort every success as they embark on the next stage of their careers.

For further information about this event or the Foundation Programme, please contact foundation.nimdta@hscni.net.