The GM Synergy project has its foundations in the University of East Anglia’s CLiP™ model (Collaborative learning in Practice) based on the concept of coaching compared to mentoring to enhance the confidence, competence and performance of students through hands-on care. The coaching approach to practice learning adopts a stronger focus toward self-directed learning and personal responsibility for learning. The learning is student led, less focused on following the direction of the mentor and more focused on students taking responsibility in identifying their goals and objectives and working with the ‘coach’ offering guidance and critical challenge.