Meet the Team

Scheme Administrator

o.khatab@nhs.net

Telephone: TBC

Information about Omar:

Omar is Pennine Scheme administrator. He is a fountain of knowledge for all things related to GP Training and he is usually the first port of call for any queries trainees and trainers have in relation to GP Training.

He support colleagues in Medical Education and is known as the Medical Education ‘go to’ person. Omar really enjoy working with the trainees and non -training grade doctors. Omar is known to be an excellent support to the doctors who want to get things off their chest and let it all out. Doctors can drop in for a chat with him at the Learning Centre.

Training Programme Director

arif_kazi@hotmail.com

Information about Dr Arif Kazi:

Dr Arif Kazi is based at Sowerby Bridge where he enjoys life as a Trainer and Pennine Programme Director. Living in the heart of Halifax his family keep him out of mischief!

“My passions are skiing and football. For any budding footballers out there Pennine is the place to be!” … Arif

Training Programme Director

bryony.waller@hee.nhs.uk

Information about Dr Bryony Waller:

I qualified as a GP after training on the Pennine Scheme in 2011. I returned to my training Practice as a partner where I currently work 6 sessions a week. After completing my PGCE in 2014 I then became a GP trainer. In addition to this I have special interests in contraception and women’s health. In 2018 I became more involved in training when I took on the role of Training Programme Director 2 sessions a week. I love being involved in GP training and helping trainees to prepare for their exams and life after training.

Work life balance is very important to me. Family life is busy as I am married and have 2 children. I enjoy sports and spending time outdoors, preferably in the sunshine! My happy place is on my rollerskates!

Training Programme Director

Kate.Simpson@hee.nhs.uk

Information about Dr Kate Simpson:

Partner at Keighley Road Surgery in North Halifax. GP trainer since 2009. TPD Performance lead, supporting who are experiencing difficulties during training. My specialist interests are minor surgery and joint injections. Outside of work, my three children keep me on my toes and I have a passion for Tae Kwon-do. Its tenets (courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control and indomitable spirit) apply equally well to life as a GP!

Training Programme Director

ajay.sharma15@nhs.net

Information about Dr Ajay Sharma:

Originally from India, I did my training in Pennine Scheme in 2007 and have been a GP Trainer since 2012. I am a GP partner at Elmwood Family Doctors in Holmfirth. My special interests are in Musculoskeletal medicine, Multiprofessional workforce training and Research.

In my personal life, I enjoy road biking, photography & cooking. I also have a keen interest in IT and like to be involved in IT related projects.

Training Programme Director

Sabah.Asfand-e-yar@hee.nhs.uk

Information about Dr Sabah Asfand:

I am an overseas graduate. Having spent some time in various roles , I qualified from the Pennine VTS scheme in 2014. I am a GP partner and trainer at Stainland Road Medical Centre.
My interest is in education. I did my MRCP, MRCGP, DFSRH and am now near completing Masters in clinical Education. As a TPD, I hope to infuse this passion in our trainees.
Outside work, I like exploring outdoors, reading books and just “ chilling” with my kids!

Training Programme Director

Nadeem.Akhtar@hee.nhs.uk

Information about Dr Nadeem Akhtar:

Partner at Spring Hall Group Practice in Central Halifax. GP trainer since 2013. I am a GP appraiser and clinical Director for Central Halifax PCN. I am Director of Pennie GP Alliance the GP federation in Calderdale. TPD supporting ST1 and ST2 trainees. My specialist interests are minor surgery, joint injections, clinical governance and quality. Outside of work I enjoy sport including football cricket and badminton.