Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT)
ENT Training Programme: All you need to know if you’re thinking about coming to East Kent to join our Programme
The ENT Department services approximately 850 000 patients in East Kent. It also looks after the ENT Cancers for West Kent patients. It has a full array of subspecialties including Head and Neck oncology, robotic surgery, Advanced Otology, Rhinology. There are daily operating lists and clinics at the William Harvey Hospital and Kent and Canterbury Hospital as well as at the Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother Hospital. There are specialist MDTs in Head and Neck Oncology, Thyroid Oncology and Otology.
The department has adopted an attending consultant model of service and education. This has led to what we believe to be an excellent educational opportunity as there is daily extensive Junior to Consultant interaction including bedside and connect teaching.
Presently, at higher surgical training level we have four higher specialty trainees, aiming to move to five from August 2024, three Core trainee, one GPST and two F2 trainees. The department has 10 Consultant Surgeons and two Associate Specialists.
Why train and learn in our Programme at East Kent?
We have had consistently high-quality feedback from trainees and external visits. Last year we were right at the top of the GMC survey for trainee satisfaction amongst ENT Higher surgical trainees.
Our aim is to provide relevant Consultant-led education to our trainees and give them every opportunity to expand their experience
What our ENT doctors say:
“Best training job I have had so far.” ENT ST5
“State of the art teaching. Very supportive team. I am very proud to work with. Well-deserved high national rank.”
“An inclusive department that truly invests in Juniors’ training needs and portrays patient safety by example.” ENT ST3
“I spent an extraordinary, fantastic 5 years at William Harvey! Extremely supportive consultant body who work hand in hand to train you. As a non-trainee, it is not common to progress to finish your FRCS exam and land in two world class head and neck fellowships at UCH and Aintree! I owe this place a lot!” ENT Trust Doctor
“Great learning environment, with supportive seniors who are enthusiastic to teach.” CT1 ENT
“Friendly and encouraging trainers who are eager to progress trainees! Fabulous department for learning!” ENT ST4
Your Key Contacts:
Mr Robert Hone
Academic
Educational Supervisor for ENT
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Mr Ali Al-lami
Foundation trainee lead for ENT
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Mr Vikram Dhar
Lead Academic Educational Supervisor for ENT
College Tutor for Surgery
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Ms Codruta Neumann
Senior Lecturer ENT Undergraduate KMMS.
Consultant ENT Surgeon/Otologist
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Catherine Gawler
Deputy Operations Manager
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Brigitte Frost
Medical Education Administrator
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Danielle Bruce
Learning Support Officer
FAQs:
What ENT subspecialties are available for trainees at this hospital?
Otology including bone anchored hearing aids and middle ear implants, Rhinology including Facial Plastics, Head and Neck Surgery including Transoral robotic surgery, Voice.
What range of surgical procedures can I expect to be involved in during the placement?
This will very much depend on your experience and seniority. Our experienced trainers will tailor an appropriate level of supervision for the cases you see.
Do trainees have the opportunity to participate in both paediatric and adult cases?
Yes
Are there opportunities for research and publications?
A number of multicentre trials are running in the department and you would be encouraged to take part, including the completion of Associate Investigator scheme. We have strong links with KMMS, Kent University and Canterbury Christchurch University and are proactive about supporting our trainees with their academic ambitions.
What mentorship or guidance is available for ENT trainees, both in surgical skills and academic development?
Each trainee will be allocated one Academic educational supervisor and at least one other Clinical supervisor.
How is feedback provided and trainee progress evaluated during the placement?
We use the RCS ISCP programme as a scaffold to guide and record assessment and feedback.
Are there specialised clinics or multidisciplinary teams that trainees can participate in?
Yes, in head and neck surgery we have both a thyroid and head and neck oncology MDM. There are a plethora of specialised clinics as described above.
What kind of access do trainees have to state-of-the-art technology and surgical simulation training in ENT?
We have access to a simulation suite, we are actively involved in ‘Sim Man‘ training, particularly in regard to airway emergencies.
What career development resources or pathways are offered to ENT trainees during their placement?
We have a strong tradition of excellent pastoral care and encourage trainees and non-trainees alike to be guided by Consultants in their career pathway. We have a superb record in this regard.
What kind of access do trainees have to state-of-the-art technology and surgical simulation training in ENT?
The trainees will have the opportunity to practice robotic surgery simulation at Kent & Canterbury Hospital.
How does the hospital ensure work-life balance for ENT trainees during their placement?
We understand how stressful it can be to be trainee. We try to organise a timetable that is flexible and allows time for CPD.