Background ‘Protocol club’ is a learning activity underpinned by social learning theory that is designed ‘by the research delivery workforce, for the research delivery workforce’. A protocol club meets regularly to critique the feasibility and deliverability of publicly available study protocols.

Aim To describe a proof-of-concept protocol club aimed at addressing the training needs of a research delivery workforce at two NHS England trusts.

Discussion The authors piloted their club with research delivery staff at the two trusts. This provided insights about group dynamics, communities of practice and confidentiality. From these results, the authors developed the framework, worksheets and other practical elements to operationalise the protocol club.

Conclusion A protocol club is a useful activity for practical learning.

Implications for practice Protocol clubs can be embedded in research delivery practice as a potential framework.