Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

  Am I eligible to attend the event?

Medical students from any university in the world are welcome to attend this event. You will be asked your university registration number during the registration process and you will have to show you university identity card at the registration desk on the day of the event.

  Who is organising and running the event?

The event is organised and run by a 20-member team comprising of medical students and doctors from the Future Excellence Committee and Doctors Academy. The organising committee is supported by several consultants acting in the capacity of advisors. The lectures and speeches in each speciality will be delivered by Consultants, Registrars and Specialists. In addition, Professors and Scientists will also give invited lectures and key-note speeches in appropriate areas such a research and academic publishing. The social events in the evenings will be run by medical students.

  How will I benefit from attending this event?

The event is designed to provide you with focussed information and knowledge about the speciality of your choice that will enhance your competitive advantage when applying for highly sought-after specialities in surgery or medicine. It will give you a better understanding of your speciality, provide you with a taster of the basic clinical and surgical skills and provide guidance on developing a strong portfolio through clinical audits, presentations and publications.

  Do I have to prepare for the event in advance?

No, you don’t have to prepare for the event in advance. During the course, information will be provided and pertinent matters taught using a series of didactic and interactive lectures as well as patient simulations and models.

  I am an International (non-UK) medical student. What will I gain by attending the summer school?

The UK is widely recognised to provide the highest standards of teaching in medicine and in undertaking cutting-edge science and world class medical research. In addition to gaining essential knowledge and skills (in your choose speciality), attending the summer school will provide you with:
•an insight of medical training in the UK
•essential facts regarding application to the General Medical Council (GMC) when choosing to do an elective placement or an observership programme with a clinical component (as well as an understanding of what a licence to practice from the GMC entails)
•an understanding of the postgraduate training opportunities that are on offer for International graduates in the UK
•an understanding on what UK NHS trusts expect/seek in an applicant from within the European Economic Area (EEA) or outside the EEA
•an understanding of the points-based system that is being introduced in the UK to identify appropriately trained professionals who qualified outside the UK.

  What is the programme and how do I choose my speciality?

On day 1, you will be divided into two broad groupings – ‘Medicine’ and ‘Surgery’ and will be provided with a broad overview of all the individual sub-specialities. From day 2, you will be placed in the group that comprises your speciality (e.g., neurosurgery, cardiology, plastic surgery) and will be given an in-depth knowledge and information regarding the speciality of your choice. During the registration process, you will be asked to choose your broad career choice (i.e., medicine or surgery) and then you will be asked to choose from one of the six programmes (speciality grouping) that comprise the different specialities.

  I intend to become a Vascular Surgeon. Should I go for the GUV or the RIV programme?

The GUV programme is best suited for those interested in being a vascular surgeon who wishes to operate on the vascular system using the traditional ‘open’ approach. The GUV programme will also help in going through a training programme that contains both general surgery and vascular surgery. The RIV programme is more suited for those who are more interested in a radiological approach to the vascular system through endovascular means and minimally invasive procedures. In this instance, your future training will comprise vascular surgery and radiology.

  Why is the speciality of my choice not in the programme?

Constraints on time, lecture room space, venue and cost mean that not all specialities can be covered by the event, and hence only the most competitive specialities are being considered. However, in order to benefit the widest possible audience, a few related specialities are grouped together in each programme. We are sorry if your speciality is not covered in this event.

  Is accommodation included in the event fee?

No, this event is conducted on a finite budget to ensure maximum participation from medical students from the UK and beyond. Thus accommodation costs aren’t part of the event fee. However, we have negotiated with the University Halls of Residence for the best possible and discounted rates. During your registration process you will be provided with information on how to book your accommodation. If you are not keen on staying in the accommodation we suggest, you are free to arrange your own accommodation.

  What type of social events may be available?

A wide array of social events, both formal and informal, has been planned and will be organised. This will include visits to historical Manchester institutions, events, theatres, meals, BBQs and night outs! The student lead of your speciality will provide further information and guidance during the event.

  Are the evening social events included in the event fee?

No, the cost of attending the evening social events isn’t included in the fee.

  Will I get a refund if I am unable to attend the event because of unforeseen circumstances?

We will follow our standard cancellation and refund policy if you are unable to attend. To view our refund policy for this event, please click here

  Who should I contact if I have any queries or difficulties related to the event?

Before the event, you can contact us at info@doctorsacademy.org.uk or contact@doctorsacademy.org.uk. One of the members of the team will contact you as soon as possible. During the event: The student lead will be your first port of call and they will introduce themselves at the start of the event. If they are unable to answer your query, they will pass it on to the doctors in the team who will be delighted to help you. The faculty will be friendly, helpful and approachable at all times.