What do paediatric trainees require from their clinical supervisors?

AIM Clinical supervisors are appointed to ensure that medical trainees receive a satisfactory education, improve their academic orientation and develop professional attitudes. The aim of this study was to find out, from the paediatric trainee's perspective, how their clinical supervisor could best do that. METHODS We conducted in-depth interviews with seven paediatric trainees in a university hospital. A template analysis of the transcribed data explored what trainees expect from their clinical supervisors and what they would change if they could. RESULTS Trainees wanted the supervision process to begin with negotiating how their supervisory relationship would be structured and how the time could be used to best effect. They wanted their supervisors to provide them with stimulating, multifaceted guidance and encouragement and support a reflective approach that linked theory with practice. CONCLUSION Trainees wanted their supervisors to support them as they took a reflective approach to their practical work and to help them to bridge theoretical and applied learning.