Plan Implementation
Introduction
The Modernising Medical Careers (MMC)
Programme introduced a number of changes to the UK postgraduate
medical training system. The Foundation Programme was introduced
and changes made to specialty recruitment. The MMC website has more
information about these changes.
An independent inquiry into the MMC Programme by Professor Sir John
Tooke was commissioned in 2007 by the former Secretary of State for
Health and the MMC Inquiry website can be
accessed for further information.
This section provides general advice for preparing CVs and
application forms, and preparing for interviews and assessment
centres. It also provides advice on how to pull together a
portfolio of evidence to demonstrate your experience.
UK Foundation Programme
The timetable and application process for the
Foundation Programme is detailed on the UKFPO
website. You can register for e-updates which will give
you the latest information on recruitment etc.
Specialty Training - recruitment and selection
Recruitment and selection for specialty
training remains competitive and an excellent application
form together with a strong portfolio and CV, and
successful performance at interview or in assessment centres will
be essential. Successful completion of a specialty training
programme results in a CCT (Certificate of Completion of Training).
Once this has been achieved doctors can apply to join the GMC
specialist register and are then in a position to apply for
Consultant/GP principal posts.
Information on the overall application timeframe, person
specifications, applicant guide etc is published on the MMC
websites for England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. Do
check our resources page for further information.
Recruitment and selection for GP specialty training is managed
through the National Recruitment Office for
General Practice Training.
Non-training Posts
There are job opportunities for doctors who do
not wish to enter a specialty training programme. The overall term
for these doctors is Staff and Associate Specialist (SAS doctors)
and they comprise: associate specialists, staff grade doctors,
clinical assistants, hospital practitioners, specialty
doctors and a number of other non-standard, non-training
‘Trust’ grades. A doctor who has not completed a specialist
training programme in the UK or equivalent in another country can
apply to enter the specialist register on the basis of previous
clinical experience. The GMC
website has further information. We also have some information
on SAS doctors.
These posts are often advertised in NHS jobs and
BMJ Careers.
Resources
Here you'll find other sources of information and advice that will
help you in your decision making about your future career. These
resources will provide you with further details about career
planning, decision making and postgraduate medical training. They
include links to the medical royal colleges, regulatory authorities
and deaneries as well as a list of books you may find helpful.