Discover the Royal College of General Practitioners

Support for medical students

The RCGP provides essential resources to help you learn about the profession and gain exposure to General Practice during medical school.

Discover more about becoming a GP,

The Society Partnership Network

This network provides official recognition, resources, and guidance to GP Societies across the UK. It helps to support and empower students to become advocates for General Practice within the medical school community.

Learn more about the Society Partnership Network.

Support for GP registrars

As you start your training, the RCGP provides the knowledge and tools you need to build the foundations of your career.

By joining as a GP Registrar (the membership grade for trainees), you'll gain access to:

• Tools and training—Essential resources to support your learning curriculum.
• Faculty networks—You can connect with your local RCGP Faculty to meet representatives and gain insight into local support. Explore RCGP Faculties.
• Representation—You can get involved at a national level through the GP Registrar and First5 Committee. This group represents the voice of trainees in Scotland, making sure your views are heard in policy development.

Find out more about GP Registrar membership.

Early career GPs (First5)

The transition from training to independent practice is exciting but challenging. The RCGP supports this phase through its "First5" membership grade. Learn more about First5 membership.

If you are a GP Registrar, your membership is automatically upgraded to First5 when you attain your CCT. Membership fees are currently discounted for your first 2 years after qualification.

The 'First5 to Partnership' Programme

Funded by the Scottish Government.

Recognising that the transition to independent practice can be isolating, RCGP Scotland has developed a specific coaching programme called First5 to Partnership.

This programme builds a community of support among new GPs. It uses coaching tools to improve confidence, decision-making, and productivity.

• Format—Delivered via two full-day in-person sessions or 3 half-day online sessions.
• Peer support—Participants join a closed WhatsApp group—For ongoing connection.
• Networking—Includes short webinars and an end-of-year networking event.

The first cohort commenced in September 2025.

View the First5 to Partnership programme.

Support for established GPs

Whether you are approaching the middle or later stages of your career, your voice as an experienced GP is vital. Membership provides a platform to share your expertise and opportunities to develop new skills within a community of over 54,000 GPs.

The 'Mid-Career Matters' Programme

Supported by the Scottish Government.

The RCGP Scotland has developed a dynamic programme to support mid-career GPs in navigating the current pressures of the profession.

Mid-Career Matters provides practical, job-focused tools to boost and energise participants. It is delivered over 2 half-day workshops backed by ongoing peer support and Q&A sessions. Online and in-person options are available.

For more information, email: mid-careermatters@rcgp.org.uk

Find out more about support for established GPs.

International Medical Graduates (IMGs)

Settling in a new country can be daunting, especially if you are bringing your family with you.

The RCGP provides a collection of resources with practical information to help you settle into life in the UK. You can also access peer support by joining the International and Overseas Group on the RCGP forum.

Access the RCGP Overseas Doctors Guide.