Background Literature suggests clinical leadership is an important attribute for junior doctors working in the National Health Service (NHS). However, no formal, mandatory leadership training exists for this group of clinicians. To date, there has been no qualitative research exploring if the absence of leadership training within the foundation programme for junior doctors is justified.

Primary Aim This is a qualitative study, with the primary aim of researching attitudes and perceptions of junior doctors towards the incorporation of leadership training within their foundation programme, in order to determine whether junior doctors believe this training would be beneficial if mandatory.

Methodology This study comprised of 13 semi-structured, one-to-one interviews with junior doctors on the foundation programme. Interviews were either conducted in-person, over video-calling platforms or via telephone calls.

Findings Thematic analysis generated four main themes, some of which had sub-themes. The main themes were: ‘Working in the NHS’, ‘Leadership and Medicine’, ‘Should training be introduced?’ and ‘Delivery and Implications’.

Conclusion Junior doctors expressed their acknowledgement of the importance of clinical leadership within a hospital setting. However, only three interviewees stated that there is a clear need to introduce mandatory leadership training in the foundation programme. Barriers were frequent, especially in relation to an already overcrowded timetable. If this training were to be introduced, it would have significant implications for numerous NHS stakeholders.