RJAH named top NHS Trust for training in Midlands and beyond

The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital NHS Foundation Trust (RJAH) has solidified its reputation as a powerhouse in education and training – ranking first in the Midlands and second nationally in the prestigious National Education and Training Survey (NETS) 2024.

This accolade speaks volumes about the Trust’s dedication to shaping the next generation of healthcare professionals, fostering an environment where learners thrive, and reinforcing its commitment to excellence in patient care.

With responses from around 40,000 trainees and students in 2024, NETS provides the most comprehensive insight into education and training quality across the healthcare sector. RJAH’s position at the top reflects a strong culture of learning and support within the Trust.

This success reflects the unwavering commitment of the Trust to providing an exceptional learning environment for trainees, apprentices, and students.

Dr Ruth Longfellow, Chief Medical Officer at the Trust, said: "RJAH is well known for its strength in medical education, particularly for orthopaedic trainees.

"I would like to express my gratitude to all those involved in medical education; the majority of our consultants being educational supervisors or clinical supervisors. In addition to postgraduate education we are now developing and strengthening our provision of undergraduate education, showing our commitment to educating and supporting doctors of the future."

Lis Edwards, Head of Education, Training and Development at RJAH, expressed her appreciation for the dedicated efforts of teams across the Trust.

"This is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and collaboration of everyone involved at RJAH,” she said.

“It's clear that the commitment of the entire team—from Practice Educators to Practice Development Nurses, Apprenticeship and Widening Participation Team, Clinical Placement Facilitators and everyone involved in clinical skills training—has made a huge difference. It ensures learners receive the highest-quality education while patients benefit from outstanding clinical care."

RJAH’s educational excellence is reinforced through strong partnerships with 16 universities, creating valuable placement opportunities and fostering collaboration at all levels.

Lis added: “A big thankyou to the IT Team who provide IT access to all learners. The Simulation Suite, the inclusion of the Orthopaedic course, and the drop-in sessions with an open-door policy all contribute to a supportive and nurturing environment for learners.

“The dedication to providing high-quality education and training in clinical settings not only benefits learners but ensures that patients receive the safest and highest standard of care.

“Thank you to all those involved in making this happen. The teamwork is certainly evident, and it’s no surprise that our Trust has reached such an outstanding milestone!”

Professional groups which contributed to the survey included: Advanced Clinical Practice, Allied Health Professionals, Dental Undergraduates and Postgraduates, Healthcare Science, Medical Associate Professions (MAPs), Medicine Undergraduates and Postgraduates, Midwifery, Nursing, Pharmacy, and Psychological professions.