Doctors (GPs)

How to become a GP

To become a GP, you will need:

  • To hold a five year degree in medicine that is recognised by the General Medical Council

  • Have completed a two year foundation course in general training. This will give you practical experience of the job

  • To complete a three year specialist training in general medical practice

  • Complete an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check

CPD requirements

A minimum of 50 CPD learning credits per year and a documented discussion of CPD at each appraisal. Significant Event Analyses (SEAs) should be discussed at each appraisal.

Opportunities

As a GP you could also work in education, teaching students training to be GPs or go into clinical research. You might also get involved in local health issues, maybe as a member of a Local Medical Committee or Clinical Commissioning Group.

National GP Retention Scheme

The National GP Retention Scheme is a package of financial and educational support to help doctors, who might otherwise leave the profession, remain in General Practice

Clinical Supervision

For information on becoming a clinical supervisor, for those who wish to start their training career by clinically supervising the wider workforce in a Primary Care Learning Environment – please see our FCP & Wider Workforce page.

Supporting effective and sustainable General Practice is what we’re all about. Whether you are a Partner, Salaried GP or Locum you can access the means to develop or extend your career. You can also find out how you may benefit from support through the coaching and mentoring scheme. 

Videos