A friend recently asked me how to make the most of their first ST3 placement. It prompted me to reflect on my own journey and consider the advice I’d give myself if I was starting again. Those early weeks can set the tone for your entire training year, getting it right from the start can […]
Your First 30 days as an ST3 Registrar in NHS placement: How to prepare Read More »
If you’re reading this, the unfortunate truth is that it’s already too late for your last application. But it’s still okay, don’t dwell on it. It’s time to be honest with yourself and focus on what’s next. The good news? It’s not too late for your next application. Yes, your last application didn’t go through
Failed To Get A ST3 Or CST NTN? Here Is What To Do Next Read More »
Entering specialty training in the UK has become more challenging over the years, as seen in the annually published competition ratios by Health Education England (HEE). For instance, applications for GP training rose from 5,166 in 2019 (with a competition ratio of 1.34:1) to 15,036 in 2024 (3.67:1). But what do these numbers signify, and
Rising Competition in UK Surgical Specialties and How to Maximise Your Chances Read More »
The portfolio station is the quintessential interview question for any UK clinical job. Performing at your best to score the highest in the portfolio interview station is guaranteed with preparation. While some basic questions are common across all portfolio stations, the key to success lies in crafting responses that reflect your unique personality and experiences.
Ace the Portfolio Interview Station: A Guide to Common Questions Read More »
With increasing competition for training jobs in the NHS, having a robust portfolio is not just a formality but a crucial tool for standing out in your applications and increasing your chances of securing your preferred job. In this article, I offer several principles and strategies applicable to any specialty or professional portfolio, ensuring you
7 Powerful Principles and Strategies for Building Your NHS Portfolio Read More »
Creating a strong portfolio for your ST3 surgical training application involves proper forward- thinking and planning across several key areas. Taking a goal-directed approach is the only sure way to create a portfolio that will secure your interview. Here’s a summary of essential tips and focus areas from my blog posts on ST3 portfolio preparation,
Building an Impressive ST3 Portfolio: Key Areas and Tips Read More »
In summary, Areas 9 and 10 assess your ability to demonstrate leadership as a clinician. The GMC considers a good doctor to be more than just a clinician; they should also be able to carry out a wide range of leadership responsibilities, such as management, teaching, and training. Management involves skills in planning, organising, coordination
ST3 Portfolio Building Essentials: Area 9 & 10: Clinician Leadership Read More »
This portfolio section evaluates whether you possess higher education degrees from the UK or their equivalents, specifically at the master’s level and above. Degrees with a thesis or dissertation, such as an MSc, MMedEd, MS, or ChM, are awarded a score of 1. Research degrees like an MD or PhD receive the maximum score of
ST3 Portfolio Building Essentials: Area 8: Higher degrees Read More »
In summary, Areas 5-7 focus on research publication experience, conference presentations, and audits/quality improvement projects, essential for demonstrating your research leadership potential. In Area 5, assessors value publications in PubMed-indexed journals, with first-author articles earning the most points. Starting early in your career is crucial to accumulate a robust publication record. For Area 6, conference
ST3 Portfolio Building Essentials: Area 5 – 7: Research and Audit Read More »
Another key portfolio area is the hands-on surgical experience in performing common procedures specific to your specialty. To measure competency in General & Vascular Surgery, assessors tally the number of appendicectomies performed either independently or while your supervisor is scrubbed, or unscrubbed in theatre. The highest scores, a 4 out of 4, are awarded to
ST3 Portfolio Building Essentials: Area 4: Demonstrating Surgical Skills Read More »
