A total of 150 doctors arrived for their first day of work at Epsom, St Helier and Sutton hospitals earlier this month.

Of these, 39 were newly-qualified, making this their first ever experience of working in a hospital.

All 150 went through a week-long induction process and will now do what are known as “rotations”.

This means that the departments they are working with will change and they will be able to experience different aspects of clinical care. 

Christie Mockford, 24, is currently based in the urology department.

She will then spend a period of time in the community, followed by four months in the cardiology department.

“I’m really enjoying it so far,” she said. “I was quite nervous at first but we’ve been extremely well supported by our seniors and everyone is very friendly.”

Colleague Tom Verghese, 23, is also starting off in the urology department.

This will be followed by four months in the acute medical unit, which treats people admitted to hospital in an emergency, and then palliative – end of life – care.

“So far, it has exceeded my expectations,” he said. “After so long at medical school it’s great to finally be here and I’m really excited about this new challenge. 

“Everyone has been so helpful and everything runs so smoothly in the hospital.”

He added: “I’m getting used to new faces and systems, but I’m really looking forward to learning as much as possible over the coming year.”

In addition to on-the-job experience, the new doctors will be expected to attend a myriad of training courses, including those aimed at further improving the way that they communicate with patients and their relatives. 

Over the next 12 months, senior doctors and consultants will teach them as they become the UK’s next generation of doctors, surgeons and consultants.

Dr Martin Stockwell is a joint medical director at Epsom and St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust.

He helps to oversee the work of all doctors, including the 150 new recruits.

"I’m sure people will join me in extending a warm welcome to our new colleagues,” he said.

“As university hospitals, we are recognised as a leader in the education and training of tomorrow's doctors, nurses and other health professionals. 

“We have some of the best experts in the field and under their guidance the new doctors will learn, develop and hone their abilities.

"Our hospitals are great environments for junior doctors to train and learn their craft under the expert supervision of our more senior doctors. 

“The very healthy numbers of this year's intake seem to suggest that there are plenty who agree. 

“We are delighted to welcome the new recruits to the Trust and hope they enjoy their time with us.”