GP work experience provides an unmatched insight into how the NHS works on the frontlines. By shadowing a GP (General Practitioner) you see how medicine is practised for patients of all ages and backgrounds.
GP Work Experience: Work Experience In GP Surgery -> What We Offer?
- Shadowing Placements
Secure GP work experience at local GP surgeries across the UK (in-person or virtual). There are far more GP practices than hospitals, so finding a placement can be easier in general practice. During your placement you’ll observe doctors seeing a broad range of patients – everything from childhood illnesses to chronic conditions.
- GP Workshops & Webinars
Join our workshops and live Q&A webinars featuring GPs and medical students. Learn about general practice roles, consultation styles, and what patients typically discuss in a GP surgery. These sessions give you expert advice and let you ask questions in a friendly setting.
GP Work Experience: Skills & Insights You’ll Gain
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Diverse Clinical Exposure
GPs are often the first contact for most patients, so you’ll see a wide variety of cases. From acute illnesses to routine check-ups, GP shadowing lets you encounter everything from childhood ailments to elderly care. -
Whole-Person Care
Watch how GPs treat the whole patient – covering both physical and mental health. Unlike specialists, GPs manage complex, undifferentiated problems with a holistic approach, which is invaluable for aspiring doctors. -
Communication & Consultation Skills
You’ll observe how GPs explain medical issues clearly, tailor communication to different patients, and efficiently run 10-minute consultations. These skills – courtesy, empathy and clear communication – are exactly what med schools look for in applicants. -
Teamwork in Primary Care
Shadow nurses, healthcare assistants and reception staff alongside the GP. General practices work as teams, and your experience will show you how all members (nurses, pharmacists, admin) contribute to patient care. This broadens your understanding beyond just the doctor’s role.
FAQs - GP Work Experience: Work Experience In GP Surgery
What to do at GP work experience?
During GP work experience you mainly observe and learn. You’ll sit in on consultations and watch the GP interact with patients of all types. You may also have the chance to shadow nurses or other staff during clinics. Some surgeries let you observe home visits, minor procedures (like vaccinations or stitches) or telephone appointments as well. In short, stay curious: ask appropriate questions, take notes in your reflective diary, and focus on how the GP communicates, diagnoses and cares for patients.
Is a GP higher than a doctor?
No. A GP (General Practitioner) is a doctor. “GP” simply refers to a doctor who provides general primary care to patients, rather than specializing in one organ or system. There are many types of doctors (surgeons, cardiologists, etc.), but GPs are all fully qualified medical doctors who chose to work in community care. It is not a “higher” or more senior rank – just a different role in medicine.
Is GP hard to get into?
Becoming a GP doctor involves a full medical school education and training, which is challenging but rewarding. Admission to medical school itself is competitive for all specialties. After graduating, doctors enter GP training programs which are also competitive and require passing exams. However, GP training is not harder to “get into” than other specialties; many doctors choose GP because of the variety and continuity of care it offers. If you mean getting GP work experience, there are many GP practices available, making placements quite accessible.
What is a GP placement?
A GP placement is a period of clinical training or work experience spent in a General Practice (GP surgery). For medical students, this typically means spending several days or weeks in a GP’s office each year, doing supervised consultations and learning about primary care. For school students, GP work experience means shadowing a GP and learning from their daily routine. In all cases, a GP placement lets you see first-hand how primary care is delivered in the community.
Don't forget to also check out of Work Experience opportunities!