Recruitment FAQs

Structured specialist / GP training programmes will begin directly after foundation training, with a competitive entry process. Once a doctor is in specialist or GP training, they will have the opportunity to gain a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT), subject to satisfactory progress. Each programme will have a curriculum, agreed by PMETB, against which doctors in training will be assessed. The number of years that a trainee spends in training will vary from programme to programme. After a doctor receives a CCT, they will be legally eligible for entry to the Specialist or GP Register and can then apply for an appropriate senior medical appointment.

Most programmes will be initially broad-based (eg medicine), becoming more specialty focused over time (eg cardiology). The introduction of run-through training means trainees no longer need to apply for individual elements of training. In addition, since more doctors will be able to complete their training, more NHS patient care will be delivered by fully trained doctors.

Doctors unsuccessful in getting into a run-through programme will be able to apply for fixed-term specialist training appointments (FTSTAs), or career posts if they have appropriate experience and training. There will be further competitive opportunities for them to enter specialist training.

FTSTAs offer formal training in the early years or “core” elements of specialty training, and can be used by doctors:

• in preparation for further specialty training - as a means of considering alternative specialty careers;

• to prepare them to work in non consultant career grade posts (NCCG) or

• as an employment opportunity with the potential to gain further experience and competences on an ad personam basis where it is appropriate and possible to do so.

FTSTAs will normally only be available to provide training in the early years – broadly equivalent to first and second years – of specialist training. There will not normally be posts available for higher level training although a flexible approach will be taken during the transitional period.

FTSTAs are normally available for a maximum of two years in a given specialty, with competitive appointments being made separately and independently for each year. If a trainee decides to compete for a second year in the specialty, it can be in the same department if a second year post is available or in a different one.

Appointment to a FTSTA carries no entitlement for entry into a run-through training programme in that specialty. Entry into a run-through programme leading to award of a CCT in the specialty (subject to satisfactory progress) is dependent on competitive appointment to the run-through programme.