Paediatrics is a high-stress speciality where compassion fatigue and burnout are real risks. This makes wellbeing initiatives not just a bonus, but a crucial part of supporting trainees throughout their careers. That’s why events like Survive and Thrive Day matter: they provide essential space for reflection, connection, and resilience-building in a field that demands so much.
On Monday 28th April, we were proud to support the London School of Paediatrics’ annual Survive and Thrive Day, a truly uplifting event that brought together more than 40 paediatric trainees from across the capital for a day filled with learning, laughter, reflection, and wellbeing.
Hosted at the Guy’s and St Thomas’ Education Centre, the day began with a calming yoga session followed by an energising burst of Cha Cha Cha dancing – a fun and fitting way to set the tone for what was to come.
The programme launched with an inspiring keynote from Camilla Kingdon (former RCPCH president and previous Head of School), alongside Thrive committee member Nadia, who shared a moving personal story of the challenges she’s faced during training and the power of community support in overcoming them.
Throughout the day, attendees took part in a range of impactful workshops. Highlights included a thought-provoking session on coaching skills from Kathleen Sullivan of the Professional Support Unit, and a powerful reflective practice session led by Gareth Drake, Psychologist in Simulation at Great Ormond Street Hospital, who introduced his innovative “Reflective Cases” model.
Of course, no wellbeing day would be complete without a moment of joy – and this came courtesy of therapy dogs Gaby and Ruth, who brought some very welcome puppy cuddles to the afternoon.
As one of the day’s main sponsors, Pastest was proud to support the wellbeing of medical professionals. We loved connecting with attendees and handing out our popular sun hats and water bottles — perfect for the sunny weather! Our picnic-style lunch also brought everyone together for a relaxed, sociable break.
Later in the day, trainees enjoyed a comedy set from Ken Cheng, and further sessions on coaching and creative reflection, led by Drs Kate and Su Laurent, and careers coach Linda Miller. Linda’s poetry workshop offered a chance to slow down and savour the power of creative expression in medicine.
Each participant also received a wellbeing goody bag, kindly donated by 'The Scrubbery', a London-based charity that supports both the NHS and humanitarian efforts in Ukraine. Attendees even contributed to camouflage nets that will be sent to support Ukrainian medical efforts – a moving and practical way to give back.
The day wrapped up with a final stretch session led by paediatrician Tamsin Gannon, followed by a scenic walk to the South Bank to reflect, relax, and celebrate a day well spent.
At Pastest, we believe that supporting trainee doctors goes far beyond exam preparation, it's an ongoing commitment to their professional development and overall wellbeing. We were honoured to contribute to such an inspiring, community-focused event and look forward to supporting many more like it in the future.
For more advice and insights, explore our blog posts:
Looking for extra support? Check out our recommended resources:
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You Okay, Doc? – a mental health charity supporting doctors
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SafeSpace Podcast – conversations focused on wellbeing in medicine
Nabeela Bhaloo