What is the Immersive Cataract Surgery Training Programme?
The Immersive Cataract Surgery Training Programme is a national initiative, funded by the Scottish Government. Its purpose is to accelerate the training of ophthalmology resident doctors and SAS doctors, helping to reduce backlog of cataract surgery across Scotland and to build a sustainable, highly skilled workforce for the future.
How does the programme work?
- Placements last six months, with new cohorts starting each February and August.
- Each week, resident doctors receive at least five immersive cataract theatre sessions. Once deemed competent, they operate independently with a trainer in an adjacent theatre.
- Additional clinic sessions and RSTAC (Research, Study, Teaching, Audit, and Curriculum) time are included, covering both technical and non-technical skills such as leadership and change management.
- By the end of the placement, participants are expected to achieve the competencies required for the Royal College of Ophthalmologists’ Entrustable Professional Activity (EPA) in running an independent cataract list.
- The programme is delivered at National Treatment Centres, initially in Clydebank and Inverness, with plans to expand across Scotland.
Impact and Benefits
- Accelerates the development of surgical skills and confidence in resident doctors.
- Increases the number of cataract surgeries performed, helping to reduce waiting lists.
- Provides a standardised, high-quality training experience, supporting service sustainability and improved patient outcomes.
- Includes non-technical skills training, preparing doctors for leadership and service improvement roles.
How can I get involved?
For Resident Doctors and SAS Doctors
- Eligibility: The programme is open to senior ophthalmology resident doctors (typically ST5–ST7) and SAS doctors working towards the RCOpth EPA.
- Application: Resident doctors are allocated to the programme by their Training Programme Directors (TPDs). Speak to your TPD if you are interested in immersive cataract training.
- Placements: A limited number of six-month placements are available, with new opportunities starting in February and August each year. You will return to your home board after completing the programme, equipped to run independent cataract lists.
For faculty (Trainers)
- Recruitment: The programme is seeking experienced cataract surgeons (minimum of 8 cataracts per list) with a passion for training.
- Role: Faculty supervise trainees in a “Jack and Jill” theatre set-up, running a list in one theatre while overseeing a trainee in another. Faculty are appointed on a sessional basis at National Treatment Centres.
- Commitment: A minimum commitment of six months is required, with opportunities to extend in six-month blocks. Indicate your preferred base (Clydebank or Inverness) and availability in your application. Roles are advertised on jobtrain in November 2025.
For potential Programme Manager
- Role: The Academy is recruiting a Programme Manager to oversee implementation, support faculty, and ensure quality and consistency across sites. Professional credibility and strong networks in ophthalmology are necessary for success in this role.
- Hours: The role is available for 6 months full time to get the programme established, then for 0.3 WTE for 18 months in the first instance. A secondment or fixed term contract is available.
- Recruitment: This role is advertised on jobtrain in November 2025.
General Enquiries and Stakeholders
- Stakeholder Engagement: We have developed the programme by collaboration with NHS Boards, the Scottish Government, and key stakeholders in ophthalmology.
- Contact Points: For general enquiries, you can reach out to the NHS Scotland Academy team at NHSScotlandAcademy@nhs.scot
For more information contact nhsscotlandacademy@nhs.scot