The Glamorgan Valleys Scheme was established in 1975. Since then the former Methyr Tydfil Specialty Training Scheme has become part of this scheme and we cover both Taff-Ely and Methyr areas. Hospital posts on the scheme, are based at the Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Llantrisant and Prince Charles Hospital, Methyr; other posts are based at University Hospital of Wales, Whitchurch Hospital Cardiff and Saint Tydfil's Hospital Merthyr Tydfil.

This well established scheme runs a half-day release course based at the Postgraduate Centre, Royal Glamorgan Hospital during the academic terms. The Glamorgan Valleys Scheme hospital based training takes place in the Royal Glamorgan Hospital, Llantrisant and Prince Charles Hospital, Merthyr Tydfil.

The half-day release is used to cover topics of particular relevance to general practice. The teaching methods used include formal presentations by local general practitioners and consultants as well as non-medical speakers. Some time is spent in group work looking at problem cases presented by the trainees. The aim is to create a supportive peer group to facilitate self-understanding as well as improving communication skills and problem solving. The trainees are also encouraged to give short presentation on topics of their choice, which are relevant to general practice.

Royal Glamorgan Hospital is a new purpose-built hospital of nearly 500 beds. The hospital was opened by the Prince of Wales in March 2000 and is located 12 miles to the North West of Cardiff and approximately 2 miles from the M4 motorway. Access to the rail network is available at Pontyclun and there is an International Airport 12 miles to the South. Prince Charles and Saint Tydfil's hospitals are situated in Merthyr Tydfil to the North of Cardiff and easily accessible on the A470 trunk road. The hospital serves the populations of Merthyr Tydfil, North Glamorgan Valleys and Southern Powys including the Brecon Beacons National Park.

Entry to the scheme is gained through the national ST application process. While the majority of trainees enter a fixed 3 year rotation, individual needs are considered. Please feel free to get in touch should you wish to discuss further.