several drugs at the same time. However, the pragmatic trial methods which aim to ease research recruitment for the busy clinician with minimal burden to families and the excellent training resources instilled confidence in embarking on the research journey.Informed consent process was an iterative learning journey where the theoretical understanding of consent and assent in paediatric trials was followed by a very different learning curve of real-life consent process. Understanding consent as an information cycle rather than a single process and balancing the needs of the carers of a sick child empathetically was a skill developed by observing the consent process before independently recruiting. Valuable communication skills were gained as COVID-19 visiting restrictions meant discussions with non-visiting parents and occasionally obtaining remote consent. Team working in collaboration with research nurses and pharmacists was another benefit of the research journey. Attending the regional PIMS/COVID MDT discussions where standardised treatment and research decisions were undertaken, enhanced the knowledge and experience in clinical management of these patients. Conclusions Overall it has been rewarding to have contributed to one of the largest recruiting COVID-19 research trials, thus making a difference to children's outcomes. Furthermore, the RECOVERY trial and Associate PI scheme have provided unique research opportunities hitherto unavailable for trainees in general paediatrics and embarking on this journey has cemented our intention to continue research engagement as part of day-to-day clinical practice.