A Review of Educational Supervision in UK Postgraduate Medical Training: Roles, Responsibilities, and Impact on Trainee Development

This review examines the roles and responsibilities of educational and clinical supervisors in the UK postgraduate medical education system, focusing on their impact on trainee doctors' educational experiences and professional development. Guidance from the General Medical Council and the Department of Health underscores the importance of consistent supervision in various clinical settings. Educational supervisors are critical in helping trainees establish clear, competency-based goals, engage in career planning, and develop resilience. Supervisors are expected to build productive relationships, provide structured feedback, and support workplace-based assessments. Various feedback models, including Pendleton's and one-minute preceptor models, are discussed for their effectiveness in promoting reflective practice and competence. By fostering open communication and structured assessment, educational supervisors help trainees navigate the complexities of clinical practice and advance in their medical careers. This review outlines the essential supervisory skills, training recommendations, and best practices contributing to effective supervision and trainee success within the UK medical education framework.