Academic Training Programme Director - Thames Valley

Academic Training Programme Director - Thames Valley

Oxford University Clinical Academic Graduate School (OUCAGS) is also the Academic School of NHS England Thames Valley (NHSE-TV, or the 'Oxford Deanery'). It was established in 2009 as a partnership between Oxford University, Oxford Postgraduate Medical and Dental Education (PGMDE) Deanery, NHS Education South Central and the Oxford Radcliffe Hospitals Trust to integrate clinical and academic training on the new Integrated Academic Training pathway. Since then, many clinical academic doctors have benefitted from this integrated approach in Oxford and Thames Valley training programs.

Main duties of the job

Summary of Role

The Academic Training Programme Director (ATPD) role is vital in supporting, developing, and mentoring academic trainees within OUCAGS ( ).

ATPDs act as mentors to either (i) SFP doctors OR (ii) Academic Clinical Fellows (ACFs) and Clinical Lecturers (CLs). We plan to appoint up to two individuals, initially supporting SFP doctors, each working approximately 0.5 EMC (2 hours) weekly.

Post-holders work closely with the Head of School, Deputy Head, and Postgraduate Dean, and may consult with the Oxford Foundation School Director. They must adhere to NHSE-TV processes and requirements. The School has a small administrative team supporting activities.

Appraisal and reappointment

Post holders will undergo an annual appraisal with the Head of School. Initial appointments are for 3 years, with a possible 2-year extension upon re-application.

Training will be provided for unfamiliar aspects of the role.

About us

The NHS England aims to deliver high-quality services, improve health outcomes, reduce inequalities, make NHS a great workplace, and foster a skilled, compassionate workforce, leveraging digital tech, research, and innovation. More info at .

Colleagues are expected to spend at least 40% of their time working in-person.

Successful candidates will undergo an Inter Authority Transfer (IAT) in ESR, subject to consent.

Job responsibilities

This role is on secondment; candidates must secure written release from their Trust/Practice for clinical work.

NHSE will cease as a separate entity by 31st October 2026, with possible future arrangements beyond that date. Further details are in the attached job description and supporting documents.

Person Specification Qualifications & Training

• GMC Full Registration
• Either Consultant (including honorary/locum) with at least 2 PAs or qualified GP with clinical and academic sessions, expected to be in KSS for 3+ years post-appointment
• Research active with recent publications
• Organisational skills
• Experience as Educational Supervisor or senior clinical manager
• Minimum 2 years as a Consultant/GP

Experience & Knowledge

• Leadership in clinical and educational settings
• Service and education delivery record
• Knowledge of relevant colleges, professional bodies, NHS structures
• Experience in recruitment, E&D (last 3 years)
• Active in appraisal processes
• Understanding of NHS workforce issues and clinical academic pathways

Skills and Abilities

• Collaborative working with clinicians and academics
• Politically astute, managing complexity
• Problem-solving and objectivity
• Strong communication and organisational skills
• Experience supporting trainers and trainees
• Successful training program delivery
• Interprofessional working experience

Behaviours and Values

• Enthusiasm for developing clinical academics
• Collaborative leadership style
• Approachable, tolerant, receptive to feedback
• Supports equal opportunities and safety
• Committed to personal and professional growth

Salary depends on experience, in line with TPD sessional payments.