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2006 has been a busy year for officers of the Trainees Group. Many of you might have been apprised at the BGS Autumn meeting, of changes happening nationally which affect us as trainees.

Both David (our E&T rep) and I had the opportunity to get involved in the development of the new curriculum for STRs (Specialist Trainee Registrars in run-through career programmes) which is currently in progress. As a specialty, Geriatric Medicine offers a broad range of clinical, research, audit and management skill training, as well as specialist skills in many areas relevant to the health care of an increasingly older population. Current trainees who are already in the Calman Training Scheme should also try to demonstrate the competencies set out in the new curriculum (desirable although not mandatory).

Both Simon (England Council rep) and David have been busy with designing, collecting and analysing data and preparing reports of their surveys on academic sessions and hospital at night, respectively. The results will be out soon. Sadly we had only a 30% response rate for both surveys. We would be interested to know how best to improve enthusiasm among trainees in getting involved with the matters that could have major impact on their life. Shakeel (our Policy Committee representative) has also recently taken on key role in revising some compendium documents concerning clinical guidelines and we welcome willing volunteers to help us with these tasks. On the academic front, both Simon and I attended the British Council for Ageing launch at the House of Lords in October. It was pleasing to see the enthusiasm among academics from all three societies (www.bcageing.org.uk) to promote the linkage between basic science, social gerontology and clinical geriatric research.

One of the most rewarding experiences was being part of the Inaugural SpRinG training weekend sponsored by NAPP Pharmaceuticals Limited. Thanks to the many people who have worked so hard in organising and delivering the programme.

2006 had been a challenging but rewarding year for the Trainees Committee. I would encourage trainees to consider standing for office for the next term (2007-2009) and would be willing to discuss any of the positions in confidence.

At the moment, we have a lot to offer (a lot to do!) as a group and the main BGS and our specialty is using us extensively. I hope the current momentum will continue in the future. With this note, I wish you all a successful year ahead.

Phyo K Myint
Chairman, BGS Trainees Committee