The Foundation Trainees Surgical Societies UK (FTSS - UK) offer a forum and a platform for all foundation year trainees and junior doctors considering training in and a career in surgery. It also offers insight in to transitioning on to core surgical training. Established in 2020, FTSS-UK has been set up by the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd) in such a manner that there is regional representation and national collaboration in all FTSS activities. By joining one of our regional societies, you become part of a national organisation dedicated to the pursuit of excellence and advancement in surgical practice. Joining a regional FTSS also makes you eligible for RCSEd affiliate status.
We are delighted to welcome you to the FTSS and the RCSEd family.
FTSS - UK Membership & Benefits
Free Membership for Foundation Year Trainees & Junior Doctors
Find out how to become a member of Foundation Trainees Surgical Societies UK and explore the benefits.
Join hereFoundation Trainees Surgical Societies National Conference 2026
Conference
Saturday 18 July 2026 (Edinburgh)
The RCSEd Foundation Trainees Surgical Societies have organised a national conference open to all medical students, foundation doctors and core trainees aimed at providing an inspirational and informative event for those considering a future surgical career.
The main theme for this year’s conference is “Operating for the Future: Sustainability in Surgery” which will focus on the surgeon of tomorrow, a greener approach to surgery and durability in a demanding profession.
This is the 6th iteration of the RCSEd National FTSS Connference and we are proud of the success our regional FTSS have had over the years, allowing for great networking opportunities, to meet fellow foundation trainees wishing to pursue surgical careers and hear about surgical and academic training, while balancing life with a career in surgery.
There will also be an academic session with free papers for oral and poster presentation aiding portfolio development and exchange of knowledge.
Abstracts
Deadline: Monday 20 April 2026
Abstract submissions are currently being accepted for this event.
We invite submissions from medical students, foundation doctors, core trainees or registrars for surgery-based original research, reviews, audits and quality improvement projects under one of the three topics including
- Improving patient outcome / patient safety;
- Medical education;
- Surgical innovation and sustainability.
Abstracts will be reviewed by an abstract selection committee, and those accepted will be offered either an oral or poster presentation.
The deadline for abstract submissions is Monday 20 April 2026, 2359hrs. Please carefully refer to the linked abstract submission guidelines document for full details and complete the submission form, to be returned via email to outreach@rcsed.ac.uk by the above deadline.
Conference Booking
Date: 18 July 2026
Click the button below to find out more and to book your place.
Book hereAbstract Guidelines and Form
Deadline: 20 April 2026
Click the button below to download the abstract submission guidelines and form.
Download hereOrganisation
Structurally, the FTSS - UK operates as a central hub for our associated regional societies spread regionally throughout the UK. Membership of one society offers access to all our College benefits and much more.
FTSS - UK Contacts
To find your nearest regional society, visit the FTSS - UK Contacts on the button below.
Search hereFTSS Objectives
- To inspire young doctors to become the next generation of surgeons, and encourage representation from a wide and diverse group of motivated trainees.
- To provide the resources to help trainees develop their surgical skills via both virtual platforms and practical courses.
- To develop a network of enthusiastic foundation trainees across the United Kingdom to facilitate collaborations in learning, training and research.
These objectives will be achieved through events, courses and workshops exclusively tailored to foundation trainees, helping you develop the necessary skills to succeed in a career in surgery.
FTSS - UK Directors
Mr Michael Silva
Director FTSS Network
Mr Michael Silva is a Consultant Hepatobiliary, Pancreatic (HPB) and General Surgeon at the Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. He is a Fellow of the Faculty of Surgical Trainers, Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh and in recognition of exceptional service to training received the Faculty of Surgical Trainers Medal in 2021.
Mr Yusuf Michla
Deputy Director FTSS Network
Mr Yusuf Michla is a consultant Trauma & Orthopaedic surgeon at the South Tyneside & Sunderland Foundation Trust. His specialist interest is in shoulder & elbow surgery with complex shoulder & elbow trauma being a particular interest.
FTSS Webinars and Events
Webinars
The FTSS host a number of exclusive webinars for its membership. These can be watched live or accessed later from our archives. Visit the FTSS - UK Webinars page for further details.
Watch here
Upcoming Events
The FTSS national conference 2026 will take place on Saturday 18 July. The main theme for this year’s conference is “Operating for the Future: Sustainability in Surgery” which will focus on the surgeon of tomorrow, a greener approach to surgery and durability in a demanding profession. The deadline for abstract submissions is Monday 20 April 2026.
Book here