Recognition of Trainers (RoT)

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Background

In 2012, the GMC issued guidelines regarding the Recognition of Trainers, to ensure that trainers in the ‘named’ roles not only had sufficient training for their educational role, but also sufficient time in which to perform that role. The Recognition of Trainers process in Scotland came into effect in July 2016.

The requirements for Recognition of Trainers in Scotland were developed by the Education Organisers (EOs): PSDS ( formerly NHS Education for Scotland (NES))  in partnership with the five Scottish Medical Schools and in conjunction with the territorial Health Boards, via the Directors of Medical Education (DME) group. These are built around the Academy of Medical Educators’ (AoME) competency framework, adopted by the GMC for this purpose and adopt a once-for-Scotland approach, so that a trainer can be recognised once for all “named” roles requiring recognition by the GMC.

Arrangements for the formal GMC Approval of GP trainers are already well established and these have not changed.

Does Recognition apply to me?

The information on this site applies to all current and prospective 'named trainers' working in Scotland but may also be used as a developmental guide. Trainers requiring to be Recognised include:

  • All Undergraduate teachers performing one of the ‘named’ roles
  • All Secondary-care trainers performing one of the ‘named’ roles
  • GP trainers who supervise foundation trainees only and who are not already Approved GP Trainers.
  • Non-medically qualified trainers performing one of the ‘named’ roles (e.g. Healthcare Science, Public Health)

Information regarding the requirements and process for Initial Recognition is contained within the Recognition of Trainers 'manual' below. Since JANUARY 2026 there has no longer been a requirement for re- recognition of trainer status every 5 years. Trainers should continue to include a discussion around educational role(s) at their annual appraisal

Recognition of trainers manual

Promoting excellence: our requirements for the management and delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate medical education and training - GMC

If you have any other questions related to Trainer Recognition, please send them to your DME/ Med Ed Department or email RoTQM@nes.scot.nhs.uk

This page was last updated on: 31.08.2026 at 14.45