The development of the medical student is not based solely on the acquisition of knowledge but also on development of skills and appropriate attitude. This requires ability to communicate effectively with patients and colleagues, sensitivity to patient needs, and the capability to influence patients to take the appropriate decisions and maintain behaviour change.

Recent years have seen marked changes in medical school curricula to support this and greater emphasis has also been made post Shipman.

The Faculty of Medicine and Surgery of the University of Malta has moved strongly in this direction. The Department of Psychiatry has led this and developed new courses, longitudinally throughout the curriculum.

The course in Behavioural Sciences was developed with emphasis on student-centred learning in small groups. It focuses on interpersonal communication, teamwork, reflective experience, holistic and patient-centred care, personal development and avoidance of burn out.

A vertical course in Psychology and Sociology in Relation to Health Care has also been introduced and the Course in Psychiatry has been redeveloped in accordance with recommendations of the World Federation of Medical Education and the World Psychiatric Association.

These new developments in the curriculum are described and explored.