Supervisor Workshop provides valuable insights on renewed FTP

Approximately 80 Fellows interested in supporting RACMA Candidates on their training journey came together for a Supervisor Workshop as part of the RACMA Conference in Brisbane. 

The workshop explored aspects of the renewed Fellowship Training Program (FTP), and associated changes to the roles of Training Supervisor, Preceptors, Jurisdictional Coordinators of Training and Candidates’ line managers. 

Structure and clarity  

Attendees discussed the renewed FTP’s structure and greater clarity on the expectations of Candidates. While the framework is an important part of shaping future health leaders, proactive planning is essential for making the most of training opportunities and achieving long-term success. 

Candidates and their Training Supervisors must actively shape their path, ensuring that they can engage with opportunities and challenges thoughtfully.  

The expectations for each member of the Candidate support team are outlined in newly refined position descriptions. 

Focus on Candidate feedback  

The renewed FTP places greater emphasis on feedback and learning conversations between Training Supervisors and Candidates. 

Training Supervisors will be required to encourage Candidates to actively engage in discussion of their performance, challenges and progress in a collaborative environment. Through open-ended questions and thoughtful guidance, Training Supervisors will help Candidates explore their decision-making processes, develop critical thinking skills and identify areas for improvement. 

What Candidates want 

Three key takeaways emerged from discussion about what Candidates want from their Training Supervisors and Preceptors: 

• Constructive and actionable feedback: Candidates value feedback that is specific, clear and directly tied to their performance. They want to know what they need to improve and, importantly, how to improve, with actionable steps they can take. 

• Guidance for long-term development: Beyond immediate performance, Candidates seek advice on their overall career progression and professional growth. This includes guidance on how to develop key competencies and leadership skills needed for their future roles. 

• Supportive environment: Candidates appreciate Training Supervisors who create a safe space for open discussions, where they feel comfortable asking questions, sharing challenges, and exploring solutions without fear of judgment. 

Thank you to our workshop facilitators for an engaging and informative session:  

• Prof Pooshan Navathé – Chair, Education and Training Committee; Chair, FTP Renewal Working Group 
• Dr Darrell Duncan – Censor in Chief; FTP Renewal Working Group 
• Dr Paul Muir – Lead Fellow, Supervision; FTP Renewal Working Group 
• Dr Peter Lowthian – Lead Fellow, Leadership for Clinicians; FTP Renewal Working Group 
• Dr Donna O’Sullivan – Chair, Training Progress Committee; FTP Renewal Working Group 
• Dr Vimal Varkey – Psychiatrist and RACMA Candidate 

For any questions or requests regarding Training Supervision or Preceptorship please email supervision@RACMA.edu.au  

Changes have been made to the FTP training support roles to improve role clarity leading to more effective support for Candidates. Find out more about the support roles. 

Further information and resources for Training Supervisors and Preceptors will be made available on the RACMA website over the coming weeks.