- What has been going on and where can you find out the current situation
- Preparation for application
- Application submission
- Resources for job applicants
What has been going on?
Applications for foundation and higher training programmes starting in August 2007 were managed online through MTAS. Technical, procedural and administrative problems created well known, major problems for the Higher Training applicants, however Foundation Programme applications were processed with minimal problems. Therefore, although the Foundation Programme application system is unlikely to change significantly, major, ongoing reforms to the higher training application process can be expected over at least the forthcoming year and potentially refinements may be made for many years to come.
As a result of the problems, complications and potential changes to junior doctor application systems, direct, accurate information is difficult to provide. However, it is possible to prepare for job applications by ensuring you know who you are, what you want and how you want to achieve it. The minutiae of the “application forms” are thus less important as you can transfer this information about yourself to the current application system.
For a summary of the past situation and an update as of June 2008 read Finch R. Junior doctors' training: one year on. BMJ Careers. 2008:207-8.
Where you can find out the current situation
A calendar of application events for Foundation Programmes can be found here and the Foundation Programme website
MMC Inquiry - find out the results of the Tooke Inquiry, the report for consultation and plans for the next steps here
Modernising Medical Careers website contains up-to-date information regarding the current situation
For those interested in an academic career see the NCCRCD website