Becoming an AKT Assessment Content Developer

Please note that the information below is provided for reference only. We are not currently accepting applications for this role and future recruitment will depend on need. Any updates regarding recruitment will be posted on this webpage.

The main role of an AKT Item Developer is to write new items for the AKT question bank and to edit questions after their use as necessary. AKT Assessment Content Developers are also involved in standard setting and quality assurance of examination items. They may also be involved in proofreading, test construction, research and preparing material for teaching and feedback to candidates and educators.

Here's what some of our current AKT Assessment Content Developers have to say about the role:

“I thoroughly enjoy being a member of the AKT core group. There is so much that goes on behind the scenes of the AKT that I never appreciated before working in the group. It is wonderful to work closely and collaboratively with colleagues from all over the UK. It is very rewarding contributing to the development and assessment of GP trainees. It is also a fantastic way of keeping my own clinical knowledge up-to-date!”

"Being able to contribute to the assessment of GP trainees, develop professional skills in item-writing and exam construction, and working closely with a fantastic group of colleagues - being part of the AKT group is a wonderful unique experience!"

Essential criteria/requirements 

• A minimum of three years (whole-time equivalent) post-qualification experience as a GP. 
• In active clinical practice as a GP.*
• Be a Member or Fellow of the College, and in good standing with the RCGP.
• Be fully registered with the GMC, without Conditions of Practice, and in good standing.
• Undergoing annual GP appraisal that meets revalidation requirements.
• On a Performers List without restriction.
• To have passed the AKT in the past 10 years (if not, then required to resit as part of the application process).
• Have no undeclared conflicts of interest (e.g. as commercial AKT exam course provider).
• Have no probity issues that might adversely impact on MRCGP-related activities.

*Working as a GP in the UK (or HM Forces) in a general practice consultation setting for at least two sessions per week on average, with the intention to continue in practice for a minimum of 5 years.  

Time commitment

• Twelve days per year for AKT meetings at various locations in the UK.
• Four half-day virtual Saturday morning meetings.
• Four days additional item writing flexibly at home.
• Two days at the MRCGP Mandatory Training Event. 

Please note that it is not possible to fulfil the role without being able to attend AKT meetings. 

Training process

The initial training period will cover four AKT question writing meetings spanning about a year during which the new member will have one-to-one support with an experienced question writer. A review at this point will usually either lead to permanent selection into the group, or further training with an extended probationary period.