As a trainee, you are developing the skills, experience and confidence that will shape your future as a surgeon or dental professional.
We support your progression through training at every stage, from early career development through to preparing for examinations, building clinical capability and working towards Membership, with access to structured learning opportunities, guidance and professional support.
Across training, we provide opportunities to connect with peers, engage with experienced surgeons and access mentoring, networks and educational resources that support your development throughout your surgical career.
Start Your Surgical or Dental Career Journey
Surgical Affiliate Network
Are you a student, foundation doctor or trainee? Affiliate with the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and we will lead and support you at every step of your career journey. Being part of our affiliate network will also give you access to a wide range of benefits and opportunities that you might otherwise miss out on.
Join now
Dental Affiliate Network
As you progress in your study, complete your training, or prepare for your MFDS or Specialty Membership Examinations, having the right support is crucial. RCSEd is here to help you shape your dental career progression and offer you a wide range of resources for training, Membership and Fellowship Examinations and development opportunities.
Join now
Foundation Trainees Surgical Societies UK (FTSS - UK)
The Foundation Trainees Surgical Societies UK (FTSS - UK) offer a forum and a platform for all junior doctors considering training in and a career in surgery. It also offers insight in to transitioning on to core surgical training.
Learn moreExams & Assessment Pathways
Exams Pathways
The College offers internationally recognised postgraduate examinations for surgeons and dental professionals, including membership examinations such as MRCS and MFDS, which support progression through core training and early career development.
Explore exams
Courses & Training Opportunities
Discover courses designed to support surgical training, professional development and skills enhancement, helping you progress through your career and build confidence in clinical and examination settings.
Explore courses
Funding & Awards
Explore our funding and recognition portfolio, including research fellowships, travelling fellowships, grants, scholarships and bursaries. We also celebrate achievements through a prestigious portfolio of medals, lectureships, prizes, professorships and awards. Opportunities are open to Members and Fellows across all career stages and specialties.
Browse portfolioTrainee Representation & Voice
Trainees' Committee
The Trainees’ Committee of the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh is dedicated to representing and advocating for trainees. It ensures that trainee perspectives are considered in all College activities.
Learn more
Core Trainee Forum
The Core Trainee Forum was established by core surgical trainees, with the mission to enhance surgical training for those at the beginning of their careers.
Learn moreTraining Tools, Skills Development & Progression
Intercollegiate Surgical Logbook
The Intercollegiate Surgical Logbook is managed by RCSEd and is a collaborative project of all four surgical royal colleges. The logbook has strong links to the JCST and the specialty associations. It provides a lifetime service to surgeons of all grades and specialties, as well as a growing number of allied healthcare professionals and students.
Register here
Edinburgh Surgery Online - Postgraduate Programmes
Run in partnership with the University of Edinburgh, the Edinburgh Surgery Online (ESO) suite of Postgraduate eLearning programmes offers a range of options for surgeons at various stages of their training.
Browse here
Surgical Education Research and Innovation Lab (SERI Lab)
In 2024, the College has launched a new group focused on surgical education research and innovation. The aim of the SERI Lab is to build a body of academic work to understand how best to equip tomorrow’s surgeons and teams to care for tomorrow's patients effectively, compassionately, excellently and safely, and to enjoy long and rewarding careers.
Learn more
Consultation Skills that Matter for Surgeons (CoSMoS)
The Consultation Skills that Matter for Surgeons (CoSM0S) page highlights the COSMOS programme, focusing on improving surgeon-patient communication, shared decision-making and cultural competence through structured training modules.
Learn moreCareer Support & Trainee Wellbeing
Parental Leave Resources for Trainees
Explore our Parental Leave Resources for Trainees, designed for those thinking about or have already started planning for a family. The RCSEd Trainees' Committee has created a guide to help you navigate essential paperwork and forms. This resource covers maternity leave, shared parental leave, paternity leave, adoption leave, and returning to work.
Learn more
Membership Pathways
Discover how Affiliate status can support your progression towards Membership and Fellowship, with access to professional networks, career development opportunities and College resources throughout your training.
Explore membership pathways