1292 An ST1 induction event in the era of COVID-19: lessons learnt

• Published in: Archives of disease in childhood 2021-10, Vol.106 (Suppl 1), p.A307-A307
• Main Authors: Taylor, Sarah, Mooncey, Mumtaz, Shah, Priyen, Diviney, James
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Abstracts; Coronaviruses; COVID-19; Ethnic Groups; Feedback; Likert Scales; Logical Thinking; Minority & ethnic groups; Networking; Pandemics; Pediatrics; Trainees; Training
• ISSN: 0003-9888; 1468-2044
• DOI: 10.1136/archdischild-2021-rcpch.535

BackgroundPaediatric trainees organise an annual induction day to welcome new ST1 trainees across multiple sectors of the deanery. This event aims to prepare trainees not only to survive, but also to thrive, encouraging them to feel inspired and enthusiastic about their training journey. It is always well attended and has received consistently excellent feedback. Other deaneries have found it to be a key means of disseminating information not provided through other sources. Since up to 100 trainees were predicted to attend the 2020 event, the COVID-19 pandemic presented a challenge.ObjectivesTo design and run a virtual induction event for new ST1 trainees, whilst maintaining the success and positivity of previous face-to-face events.MethodsAttendees were surveyed in advance to allow the organisers to tailor the event to their needs, worries and interests. The event was discussed with key stakeholders within the relevant deaneries. In accordance with the feedback received, the event was tailored to suit a virtual platform.The induction ‘day’ was shortened to half a day and individual sessions were limited to maintain momentum and engagement. In light of the current events surrounding Black, Asian and minority ethnic groups, it was deemed important to include a new session focused on this topic. Traditionally, the chance to meet other trainees starting at the same Trust was a highlight of the event. Breakout groups were designed to facilitate this virtual meeting. A handbook and YouTube channel were created to complement the day, covering content which could not be included in the live event, and as an additional resource for the year ahead.ResultsThe virtual event received extremely positive feedback. Of 107 new ST1 trainees in the region, approximately 95 (88.8%) attended, and 68 (71.5% attendees) provided feedback. 92.6% of trainees felt more prepared to start training following the event. Trainees scored how prepared they felt before and after the event using a five-point Likert scale, with a mean increase in their score of 1.12 following the event (p