GP fellowships

What is a GP fellowship?

A GP fellowship is a fixed-term, structured post. It is designed to support newly qualified GPs as they transition from training into their independent careers.

It acts as a bridge, combining regular clinical work in a host practice with protected time to develop a special interest. These posts typically last for one to two years. They provide a supportive environment with dedicated mentorship, helping you build skills and confidence at the start of your GP career.

The benefits of a GP fellowship

Choosing a fellowship offers a unique, managed start to your career, setting you up for long-term success and satisfaction.

A supported transition into practice

A fellowship provides a supported route to independent General Practice. Fellowships provide structure and dedicated mentorship from an experienced GP. This helps to reduce the “cliff-edge” feeling many get after finishing their GP training.

Develop a special interest early

Fellowships give you salaried, protected time to explore a specific area of medicine you’re passionate about. This allows you to gain valuable experience and skills in fields like:

• rural medicine
• health inequalities
• clinical leadership
• medical education

Gaining skills in these areas can help guide your future career direction.

Guaranteed protected learning time

Unlike many GP roles, a fellowship has protected learning and development time built into your job plan. Use your protected time to attend courses or work on projects, free from the pressures of clinical work.

Build your professional network

During your fellowship, you’ll connect with a peer group of other fellows, senior clinicians, and leaders in your area of interest. This is an excellent way to build a strong professional network that will support you throughout your career.

What to expect in your role

A GP fellowship is structured to provide a balanced week of clinical practice and developmental work.

A typical week might include:

• 6 clinical sessions—Working as a GP in your host practice, managing your own patient list.
• 2 fellowship sessions—Focusing on your special interest area, by attending specialist clinics, working on a quality improvement project, or undertaking specific training.
• 1 professional development session—For self-directed study, attending educational events, or meeting with your mentor.

This structure provides a stable and predictable work pattern. You’ll be employed on a fixed-term contract with a clear job plan. You’ll also be assigned an educational supervisor or mentor to guide you throughout your fellowship year.

Working in a GP out of hours service

During a GP Fellowship, working in OOH is often part of your training. It helps you build confidence and skills in managing urgent care. These sessions are usually arranged in a supported way through your fellowship programme.

Before you start GPOOH work

Working OOH in Scotland is straightforward. You just need to be aware of a few practical points:

• Performers’ List—To work in any GP role in Scotland, you must be on a health board's Performers' List.
• Indemnity cover—All GPs in Scottish OOH services are covered by the state-backed CNORIS indemnity scheme for that work.
• Flexibility—OOH shifts offer flexibility, particularly for work during evenings and weekends.

Find out more about GPOOH services in Scotland.

Types of GP fellowships in Scotland

NHS Scotland offers a range of nationally recognised fellowship programmes tailored to different interests and career goals.

Well-known fellowship opportunities include, but are not limited to:

• The Scottish GP Rural Fellowship—For GPs interested in gaining the skills and experience needed for rural practice.
• Health Inequality Fellowships—Focusing on addressing the complex health needs of patients in Scotland's most deprived areas.
• Leadership and Quality Improvement Fellowships—For those interested in medical management, leading change, and working with regional and national health boards.
• Out of Hours Fellowships—Designed to build skills and confidence in urgent and unscheduled care.

These programmes provide the perfect opportunity to kick-start your career in a specific field.

Is a GP fellowship right for you?

This career path is a good option if you’re looking for a structured and inspiring start after completing GP specialty training.

A GP fellowship could be a good fit if you:

• have recently achieved your Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT)
• want a gradual and supported transition into independent practice
• are keen to develop a special interest but would like protected time to do so
• value mentorship and structured learning as you build your confidence

If these points resonate with you, exploring fellowship opportunities is a logical next step.

How to find and apply for a fellowship

Fellowship posts are advertised annually, and the application process is competitive.

To find a role, you should:

1. Look for vacancies—Most national fellowships are advertised on the GP Jobs website.
2. Prepare your application—Tailor your application to the specific fellowship you are applying for, highlighting any relevant experience.
3. Express your passion—Use your application and interview to show a genuine interest in the fellowship's specialism. Remember to explain how it fits with your long-term career goals.

Starting this process early will give you the best chance of securing a fellowship.

Related content

The following resources provide official information on GP fellowships and career support in Scotland:

• GP Jobs: For current fellowship vacancies and application information
• Scotland Deanery: For information about GP fellowships in Scotland
• Scottish Local Medical Committees (LMCs): For local peer support and representation

These resources provide essential guidance for your post-CCT career journey.