What to apply for...
Firstly determine how much GP training you require. If you are starting out on your GP career, you will want to apply for a full 3 year scheme. However, if you have some previous hospital experience you need to determine if it will be accredited towards your overall GP training. To do this, you need to apply to the JCPTGP who will give you a formal ruling as to how much further training you require. You will then be able to apply for an appropriate shorter scheme. If you have already completed the hospital component of your training you need to apply for a GP Registrar post to complete your GP training. From 3rd November 2003 both the hospital and GP based components of training can be undertaken while holding limited GMC registration.
Choosing the right scheme...
Identify the right vacancy for you so that you can make an appropriate application.
You can identify which schemes can offer a shorter programme by using the national vacancy summary. You can then use the scheme vacancy tables to check which specialities are offered by each scheme so that you do not apply for a post you have already done.
You can also use the national vacancy summary to identify schemes which offer training in particular specialities not all schemes offer ENT and Dermatology for example. Some schemes include more unusual specialities not usually found on GP rotations, such as Palliative Medicine or Rheumatology. If you wish to include a specific speciality in your training, you can use the scheme vacancy tables to check if your preferred scheme offers training in that speciality.
Find out more...
Once you have identified the scheme that offers the training you require, you can find out more about the deanery and the VTS scheme by reading the profiles provided on this site and following links to other sites. You may like to contact a course organiser or visit the scheme or training practice. Some schemes will hold open days during the recruitment period and you should try to attend these if possible.
Obtain an application pack...
Application packs are only available from individual deaneries not the National Recruitment Office. Use the How to Apply option to find out how you can access an application pack from your chosen deanery. Most deaneries will provide a downloadable application pack on their own web sites but some may ask you to telephone or email a request.
Read the information provided...
Once you have received information from the deanery, take time to read all supporting documentation included in the application pack. If you are asked to rank your preferred choices of schemes, make sure that all the schemes you choose can offer you the training you require and are in areas where you would be prepared to work.
Completing the form...
When completing the application form, it is important that you answer all questions as thoroughly as you can. Most deaneries will provide guidelines to help you complete the application form and you should ensure that you read these carefully. Person specifications should be available from the deanery
Essay type questions that ask you to give examples of situations you have encountered will require some thought. It is important that you answer these types of questions honestly.
If you are using a word processor to complete your application do ensure that the quality and legibility of the printed form is satisfactory and remember to sign any necessary forms in ink before you send them back. If you complete the form by hand, make sure your handwriting is legible.
Submitting an application...
Only submit applications to deaneries where you are prepared to work. Sending multiple applications will not maximise your chances of success. Indeed, if you subsequently decline an offer from a scheme you applied to, you will not be made any further offers and will not be eligible to enter the national clearing system.
Before posting your application:
Ensure that you have provided copies of any supporting evidence requested, copy of GMC Certificate, letter from JCPTGP, VTR2 forms etc.
Make sure that you send the required number of copies and that all the copies are legible.
Make sure that you have completed all the necessary forms and answered all the questions. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Make sure that your application will be received at the Deanery before the closing date. Applications received after this date will not be considered.
And Finally
Have a look at our Frequently Asked Questions for more help and tips on the application and interview and selection processes.
Start to prepare yourself for the interview.
Selection methods used by deaneries vary but you will be expected to demonstrate a commitment to general practice and know something about the wider issues surrounding general practice and the NHS. The deanery will give you more information of its selection methods if you are selected for interview.
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