Learning environment and culture

AOA is committed to fostering a respectful, inclusive and safe learning environment for surgical training and practice.

• Our ethical framework, code of conduct, program regulations and policies, and training setting accreditation standards promote equity, inclusion, professionalism, and trainee welfare.
  
  
• Foundation (non-technical) competencies are embedded throughout the Curriculum for Education and Training in Orthopaedic Surgery, reflecting the holistic expectations of trainees and graduates for safe, independent surgical practice.
  
  
• All supervisors act as role models and undertake training that builds cultural competence and cultural safety, promotes respectful behaviour, and supports effective management of trainee performance and wellbeing.
  
  
• AOA recognises that the learning environment is shaped through day-to-day clinical practice, including how feedback is given, how performance concerns are addressed, and whether trainees feel able to speak up and engage fully in their learning. The program is designed to support consistent, constructive and development-focused practice across all training settings.     

Together, these elements create a learning environment that supports effective learning, high-quality patient care and trainee wellbeing, enabling trainees to develop as safe and capable independent practitioners.