What are your top 3 tips to anyone training to become a Paediatrician?

• Aim to pass the MRCPCH exam as quickly as possible
• For the MRCPCH written exams, just use an undergraduate paediatric textbook and The Science of Paediatrics and Clinical Cases for MRCPCH Theory and Science books.  For the clinical exam,  examine lots of children, present your findings and attend a course
• Avoid devoting too much  time on questions and answers  - it is more productive to spend your time gaining an overview of paediatrics

What are the hot topics in Paediatrics today?

• One of the current hot topics discussed in is the involvement of more children in clinical research to help improve outcomes. Instead of being frightened to involve children in research, we need to conduct more, well designed studies. Children and families are often enthusiastic participants, if provided with adequate explanation.
• This is reinforced further in The Science of Paediatrics: MRCPCH Part 1 Mastercourse where it describes numerous treatments that caused harm or death because their use was not underpinned by adequate research. 

What is your number 1 tip on how to use The Science of Paediatrics: MRCPCH Part 1 Mastercourse book whilst preparing for the MRCPCH exams?

• Use the book to check you understand the principles behind interpreting investigations or management; details can usually be found on the internet or textbooks and don't need to be memorised.

In your experience, what is a common pain point for a practicing Paediatrician and what would be your advice on how to overcome it?

• Managing one’s time so that it is productive in providing care for patients and for one’s own learning and development.