Welcoming IMGs New to Scotland (WINS)

WINS: Welcoming International Medical Graduates New to Scotland

WINS began in 2024 and replaced our successful IMG Orientation Days and our STEP (Scottish Trainee Enhanced Programme) programmes for IMGs.

STEP was introduced in the Scotland Deanery in 2016 as an enhanced induction package for International Medical Graduates (IMGs) commencing GP Training in Scotland. This has been rolled out in other specialties and WINS has been developed to ensure that all new IMGs in Foundation, Specialty, and SAS posts in Scotland can attend an enhanced induction programme.

IMG doctors face unique challenges which may include additional learning needs. Support has shown to improve training outcomes if the support is offered early on. WINS is delivered by a large group of experienced educators led by our Lead Dean Director, Dr Nitin Gambhir.

The unique aspect of STEP, and now WINS, is that Educational Supervisors are also invited to attend. Inviting ESs has shown to help build a strong and supportive Trainer-Trainee relationship, something for which GP-STEP has been recognised by the GMC.

WINS will be offered regionally as a Face-to face events. Doctors/ESs should attend their own regional WINS event. There is some flexibility to attend the other Regional Events if a WINS event is not being held in your region but please discuss this with your IMG trainee to ensure you both attend the same event.