The orthopaedic term in the undergraduate medical curriculum consists of a 4-week placement in the 4th year. Approximately eight students undertake the orthopaedic term at any one time. Each student is assigned to an orthopaedic surgeon and works as part of their team for the duration of the term. Students are expected to be an active member of the team, involving themselves in ward rounds, departmental meetings, and surgery.

The structured curriculum includes tutorials on orthopaedic theory and practice as well as workshops on physiotherapy and plastering.

In the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, the consultants and registrars involve the students in their activities, including work in private clinics, which the students are encouraged to attend. Each surgeon specializes in a specific area of the body.

At the end of the term, the students are assessed by the surgeon or registrar on the team with which they have been working. Students are also assessed by way of an informal practical examination, such as performing a physical examination or interpreting an x-ray. Students are also asked to prepare a short PowerPoint presentation on an assigned orthopaedic topic.