The Smeartaker Training Unit, led by Carol McNamara, National Smeartaker Training Co-ordinator, has responsibility for the co-ordination and delivery of all education and training initiatives for over 4,150 registered smeartakers on an ongoing basis.

The Unit facilitates learning through the delivery of accredited smeartaker training modules in partnership with the Irish College of General Practitioners, the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, and the National University of Ireland, Galway. The Unit also facilitates learning through the organisation of clinical updates, and the development of related educational resources, including a Guide for Smeartakers and a training DVD.

To date, a total of 804 smeartakers have attended initial smeartaker training programmes, and in 2008-2009, 543 smeartakers attended clinical updates.

The Smeartaker Training Unit also facilitates information sessions for clerical and administrative practice staff. In March/April 2009, over 140 attendees participated in such information sessions.

There are nine Smeartaker Training Programmes scheduled for the course calendar 2009-2010; details of which can be found in the current Smeartaker Training Prospectus.