Job Description
Role Overview
Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust is inviting applications for a Trust Doctor in Paediatric Cardiology within the Heart and Lung Directorate.
This post is designed for doctors at ST2–ST3 equivalent level who are interested in gaining specialist experience in paediatric cardiology. It is particularly suitable for trainees seeking Out-of-Programme Experience (OOPE) to enhance their clinical skills and exposure to complex cardiac conditions in children.
The placement lasts six months, with the possibility of extending to twelve months if both the doctor and the department agree that the extension would benefit training and career development.
During the placement, the successful candidate will work mainly on the general cardiology ward and day-care ward, while also having opportunities to gain experience across the wider cardiac unit.
Clinical Responsibilities
The Trust Doctor will contribute to the care of children with congenital and acquired heart disease. The role involves both direct patient care and participation in multidisciplinary clinical activities.
Key duties include:
- Managing patients admitted to the paediatric cardiology ward and day-care unit.
- Assessing and monitoring children with cardiac conditions under consultant supervision.
- Supporting ward rounds, clinical decision-making and patient management plans.
- Participating in multidisciplinary team discussions and patient reviews.
- Maintaining accurate clinical records and ensuring high standards of patient safety.
- Doctors in this role will also have the opportunity to observe and learn from specialist services across the cardiac department.
Learning and Training Opportunities
This post offers a valuable educational experience for doctors interested in paediatric cardiology.
Fellows are encouraged to attend and observe activities in several specialist areas, including:
- Cardiac operating theatres
- Cardiac catheterisation laboratories
- Echocardiography services
- Specialist cardiology clinics
The department also provides:
- Structured teaching sessions for junior doctors
- Additional registrar-level teaching programmes
- Access to specialist training courses such as cardiac morphology and echocardiography courses
These opportunities allow trainees to develop a strong understanding of both the clinical and technical aspects of paediatric cardiology.
About the Cardiac Unit
The cardiac service at Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust is one of the largest paediatric cardiac centres in Europe.
The unit provides a full range of services for children with heart disease, including:
- Medical management of congenital and acquired cardiac conditions
- Complex cardiac surgery
- Heart and heart-lung transplantation
- Advanced diagnostic investigations
Key service statistics include approximately:
- 1,400 inpatient admissions each year
- 11,000 echocardiography examinations annually
- 500 invasive diagnostic procedures
- 400 open-heart surgeries and 300 additional thoracic procedures
- Many patients treated in the unit are infants under one year of age, highlighting the specialist nature of the service.
About the Organisation
Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust is internationally recognised for delivering specialised care for children and young people.
The hospital combines clinical excellence, research and education, making it a leading centre for paediatric healthcare worldwide.
The Trust is committed to building an inclusive workforce and encourages applications from individuals of all backgrounds, including people from under-represented communities.
Employee support networks such as REACH, ENABLED, PRIDE, and Women’s Network help promote a culture of equality and respect across the organisation.
Essential Qualifications
Applicants must have:
- A primary medical qualification (MBBS or equivalent).
- Full registration with the General Medical Council (GMC) with a licence to practise by the start date.
Desirable Qualifications
Additional qualifications that may strengthen an application include:
- MRCP or MRCPCH (Part I or Part II) or equivalent postgraduate qualification.
Essential Clinical Experience
Applicants must demonstrate:
- At least 12 months of clinical experience in paediatrics.
- A minimum of three months working in a tertiary neonatal unit.
- Experience in teaching, presentations or educational activities.
- Participation in clinical audits or quality improvement work.
- Understanding of clinical governance and patient safety principles.
Desirable Experience
Preferred experience may include:
- Previous work in paediatric subspecialties.
- Experience within the NHS healthcare system.
- Research publications in peer-reviewed journals.
- Additional experience in tertiary neonatal care.
- Core Skills and Competencies
Successful candidates should demonstrate:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to prioritise clinical tasks and manage workload effectively.
- Confidence working in multidisciplinary teams.
- Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Great Ormond Street Hospital for Children NHS Foundation Trust is committed to providing equal opportunities and building a diverse workforce.
Applications are welcomed from individuals of all backgrounds, including:
- Black, Asian and minority ethnic communities
- People with disabilities
- Members of LGBTQ+ communities
The organisation believes that diverse perspectives strengthen healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes.
Visa Sponsorship
International applicants who require UK Skilled Worker visa sponsorship are welcome to apply and will be considered alongside other candidates.
For official information about working as a doctor in the UK, consult these government resources:
- Skilled Worker visa guidance
- Health and Care Worker visa route
- Registering as a doctor with the General Medical Council
- Department of Health and Social Care – NHS workforce policies
- Care Quality Commission – healthcare standards and regulation