About US

Welcome to the Foundation Programme at Royal Bolton

The Foundation Programme at Bolton NHS Foundation Trust offers a comprehensive, well-supported two-year pathway (FY1 and FY2) that equips newly qualified doctors with essential clinical, professional, and personal skills. We are proud to have a long track-record of attracting some of the most talented FY1 & FY2 cohorts in the UK, we are often ranked Number 1 preference during foundation programme applications.

Why Choose Bolton Foundation?

  • High-volume, diverse clinical exposure: As one of the busiest trusts in the North West, trainees manage a rich caseload across acute medicine, emergency care, surgery, paediatrics, and community services .

  • Strong teaching infrastructure: Protected weekly FY1/2 teaching, peer-led sessions, and support from designated educational and clinical supervisors help reinforce learning.

  • Academic and leadership streams: Tracks tailored for those pursuing academic research or leadership roles provide focused mentorship and opportunities for involvement.

  • Excellent Culture: Known for our welcoming, collaborative and social culture. Don’t believe us? Just ask one of our many foundation programme Alumni who return to Bolton for speciality training.

Meet the Team

  • Dr Gareth Hughes – Director of Medical Education (DME)

    Consultant in Intensive Care and Respiratory Medicine.

  • Dr Natalie Walker – Foundation Programme Director (FY1)

    Consultant in Acute and Stroke Medicine.

  • Dr Jennifer Ruddlesdin – Foundation Programme Director (FY2)

    Consultant in Orthogeriatrics.

  • Dr Mazen Khabbass - Teaching Programme and Digital Co-Lead

    Specialised Foundation Doctor

  • Dr Collin Mattathil - Teaching Programme and Digital Co-Lead

    Specialised Foundation Doctor

  • Dr Laura Edwards – Associate Foundation Programme Director (AFPD)

    Consultant in Palliative Medicine.

  • Dr Geraldine Donnelly – Associate Foundation Programme Director (AFPD)

    Consultant in Care of the Elderly.

  • Dr Nikesh Patel – Associate Foundation Programme Director (AFPD)

    Consultant Geriatrician.

  • Carla Ward – Foundation Programme Administrator (FPA)

  • Nick Forbes – Clinical Skills Educator

  • Joanne Warburton – Medical Education Manager (MEM)

  • Dr Amy Hallett - Teaching Programme Co-Lead

    Specialised Foundation Doctor