26 May 2026

Dr Helen Peet, Foundation Programme Director at our Trust, has been named Foundation Training Programme Director of the Year at the national Medical Education Leaders Awards 2026.

The prestigious award recognises outstanding leadership, commitment and innovation in postgraduate medical education across the UK. Dr Peet received her award at the Medical Education Leaders Annual Conference in Cheltenham in May.

Dr Peet was recognised by the judging panel for her exceptional dedication to supporting foundation doctors, her strong local educational leadership, and her commitment to inclusion, trainee wellbeing and career development. The nomination highlighted her work in enhancing teaching programmes, expanding hands-on and simulation-based learning opportunities, and providing consistent pastoral support for trainees.

In her role, Helen has led significant improvements to FY1 and FY2 teaching programmes, including the introduction of tailored exam and interview preparation and expanded careers events. Her work has received high praise from junior doctors, educational supervisors and senior leaders.

Helen said: “I am absolutely delighted and very honoured to receive this award. Supporting foundation doctors at the very start of their careers is incredibly important to me, and none of this work would be possible without the fantastic educational and administrative teams I work alongside. To be recognised nationally is a real privilege.”

Dr Aileen Sced, Director of Education at PHU and Isle of Wight NHS Trust, said: “This is thoroughly deserved recognition for Helen. She is an outstanding leader and educator whose commitment to high-quality training and pastoral support has made a real difference to the experience of our foundation doctors.”

The Medical Educators Awards celebrate individuals and teams who make an exceptional contribution to postgraduate medical education across the NHS, with winners selected from nominations submitted nationally.

Dr Peet’s achievement reflects our Trust’s continued commitment to delivering high-quality education, training and support for doctors in training, helping to build a strong and sustainable future NHS workforce.