GPST/VTS Selection Process

VTS/GPST training programmes to commence in August 2011 will be published on www.gprecruitment.org.uk

There are separate competitions for entry into training at ST1 or ST2 or ST3 level and Academic Clinical Fellowship.

The selection process involves four stages:

Stage 1 - Application on-line

An application can be submitted online from 22nd November until 19th December 2010. This application is then reviewed and provided that you are eligible to apply (legally able to work in this country) the form will then get put forward to stage 2.

Stage 2 – MCQ and Written assessment

Eligible applicants will be asked to attend an initial national assessment under exam conditions designed to measure the competencies outlined in the ‘National Person Specification’. This is a two-part assessment involving a Clinical Problem Solving paper and a hand-written short answer Professional Dilemma paper. You will be able to attend at the closest available centre to where you are currently living.  Stage 2 assessment day is held nationwide and will be held on the week commencing the 17th of January 2011. 

Stage 3 – Selection through interview skills

If you are successful in the stage 2 stage, you are invited to attend a selection centre for further assessment. Other considerations before the invite include your geographical preferences and place availability. You will only be asked to attend at one deanery (specific to where you will eventually secure a training placement if successful).

Candidates will be assessed with the ‘National Person Specification’ in mind. The tasks assessed will involve various role play scenarios including a simulated surgery consultation and a written prioritisation skill.

It is at this stage that you will be expected to take along your references. The dates for this stage will vary amongst the deaneries, but starts on the 21st february 2011 and dates span over two weeks until the 4th of March, for the August 2011 intake.

Stage 4 – Allocation and Offer

This is where the deaneries allocate placements to most of the successful candidates. The offers will be made on the 4th of March 2011.  It is expected that not all the successful candidates will be offered a placement due to limited posts. The NRO (National Recruitment Office) will attempt to ensure that any remaining vacancies are offered to suitable candidates from the other deaneries where appropriate.  Offers need to be accepted or declined within 48 hours, where thereafter local and national clearing will occur.