GMC statement on national professional examinations and postgraduate training

We held a second very constructive meeting in September 2010 with key interest groups about the regulation of national professional examinations which contribute to postgraduate training.

The meeting discussed whether the GMC should define the circumstances in which a national professional examination can be ‘carried’ into a specialty training programme, and thereby contribute to a CCT, i.e. what constitutes a ‘valid’ examination pass.

It was agreed that the issues were complex and needed more detailed engagement with all those involved before decisions could be reached. We are keen to reach a resolution but recognise that we have to get it right.

As a result, we will seek views on these matters early next year. We will provide further details of this nearer the time, but we will make sure the process is as wide-ranging and inclusive as possible.

Before the September meeting the GMC had agreed to a set of interim arrangements (see statement of 30 April 2010 and 8 July 2010 joint statement), to provide some certainty for current and future trainees.

In the meantime the GMC has agreed to grant an extension to the current arrangements (see Annex A) to 31 October 2012. 

October 2010

Annex A

Summary of interim GMC guidance on national professional examinations and specialty including GP training

1. The GMC does not consider that it would be proportionate or necessary to undertake a review of CCTs already awarded.
2. Valid passes in national professional examinations which are part of the approved assessment system can count towards an appropriate CCT if obtained:
   • while doctors are in approved specialty including GP training (core, higher or run through), LATs (locum appointments for training) or FTSTAs (fixed term specialty training appointments)
   • while doctors take a break from their training (for example, to go on maternity leave) whilst retaining their training number, or are undertaking approved out of programme experience (for example research)
   • while doctors are in the UK GMC approved Foundation Programme
   • before doctors enter approved specialty including GP training if that training commences on or before 31 October 2011.

8 July 2010