The South East London Orthopaedic Rotation is one of the most geographically compact deaneries in the UK, yet it provides exceptional access to state-of-the-art orthopaedic facilities and expert trainers. Established in 2012, it was formerly part of the South East Thames Rotation before being restructured by Health Education England into South East London, South West London, and Kent, Surrey & Sussex (KSS).

This dynamic rotation is dedicated to delivering a comprehensive and supportive training experience, with a strong focus on high-quality education, research, and fellowship opportunities. We maintain close collaborative ties with neighbouring deaneries in KSS and South West London, enabling joint teaching sessions led by internationally recognised trainers. The educational programme includes symposiums, hands-on workshops, and mock vivas tailored to FRCS exam preparation, ensuring trainees are well-prepared for national exams and in securing their desired consultant roles.

Trainees gain broad exposure to a wide range of orthopaedic sub-specialties through placements at high-volume district general hospitals and world-class centres, including the Evelina Children’s Hospital, King’s College Hospital (the Major Trauma Centre for the South East), and Guy’s & St Thomas’ Hospitals, the latter of which is one of the top ranked hospitals in the UK.

For those seeking sub-specialisation, Guy’s & St Thomas’ offers prestigious fellowships in Hip Arthroplasty (with a focus on young adult hip conditions), Knee Preservation, Shoulder and Elbow Surgery, Hand Surgery, and Spine Surgery in partnership with the National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery.

King’s College Hospital provides distinguished fellowships in Advanced Trauma and Lower Limb Reconstruction, Upper Limb Surgery, and Diabetic Foot management, placing trainees at the forefront of orthopaedic innovation and care.