Getting into Specialty Training for General Practice

Specialty training for general practice is based on a three year programme which includes a series of placements lasting at least twelve months in a hospital setting and at least twelve months in general practice.  Programmes are organised through the postgraduate deaneries which are organised geographically across the UK.

From August 2007, these programmes will be based on the RCGP Training Curriculum which has been approved by the Postgraduate Medical Education and Training Board (PMETB).

The award of a Certificate of Completion of Training will depend on success in the nMRCGP assessment. This will consist of three elements – a knowledge test, a clinical skills assessment and workplace-based assessment carried out during the training placements.

Selection into GP training is now based on person specifications. Those wishing to enter training on completion of a Foundation Programme should refer to ST1; those who have already undertaken SHO posts in hospital may be eligible to enter a training programme at either ST2 or ST3 level. (Those already on a GP vocational training scheme (VTS) will be able to continue their training as it is currently structured.) 

Applicants will be required to demonstrate eligibility against each in their applications and in the selection process.  The application process for general practice is administered by the National Recruitment Office for General Practice Training.