The challenges of the transition from medical student to intern are well documented. Suggested solutions include student assistantships and the shadowing of first-year doctors. In this toolbox article the authors consider the role of orientation as an aid to help newly qualified doctors settle into their roles and responsibilities. Many of us will have experience of orientation activities when moving jobs, locations or departments. No-one should be expected to hit the ground running when joining a new organisation-adapting to a new culture and getting to know colleagues are important tasks before taking on a full workload. But what is the most effective model for an orientation process? As with other educational activities, passive rather than active learning is not suitable. This toolbox article introduces the topic of intern orientation by describing what the authors have found, in their experience and from intern feedback, to be important for work readiness. They discuss the underlying principles and components of their own successful orientation package. Interactive learning is important to promote participant engagement. Simulation based on clinical tasks and teamwork provides hands-on training. The involvement of peers-the current cohort of residents-is