Apply to paediatrics

We provide guidance on applying to specialty training at ST1 and at ST3, academic training and training in one of our 17 sub-specialties. We have information about opportunities in the UK for international doctors. Plus guidance on recruiting consultant paediatricians in the NHS.
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Most doctors enter paediatric training at Specialty Training 1, or ST1, starting their posts in August or September. This is known as 'National Round 1'. Applications for 2025 closed on 21 November.
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ST3 posts may be available at two points in the national specialty recruitment calendar. Applications for for ST3 posts starting in August/September 2025, are open from 10:00, 14 November to 16:00, 5 December.
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All paediatricians play a part in research that benefits infants, children and young people. Academic posts enable some trainees to focus on research - and our toolkit and regular events give support.
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Sub-specialty training

All paediatricians start their training in general paediatrics. Some choose to apply for one of the paediatric sub-specialties (previously known as 'Grid').

Applications for 2025 sub-specialty posts are closed as of 13 November, 12 noon. 

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Recruiting consultant paediatricians

The Advisory Appointment Committee (AAC) is an interview panel for NHS employers in England, Wales and Northern Ireland appointing to substantive consultant posts. We provide guidance for employers and for members acting as the College Assessor on these panels.

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The MTI(p) scheme provides paediatricians from outside the UK / European Economic Area two years of high quality postgraduate training in the NHS. Graduates can use this experience to improve patient care in their home countries, and UK hospitals benefit from their skills and knowledge.
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The IPSS facilitates GMC registration for eligible medical graduates from outside the UK / outside the priority nations list for MTI(p). Applicants need to enter UK posts with a sufficient training/educational component and organise the right to live and work in the UK.
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There are several options for international doctors who wish to come to the UK to work in paediatrics, whether on a short-term or long-term basis. We provide information, including finding work in the NHS, visas and GMC registration.

News about careers and training

Blog

My experience applying to paediatrics, with tips

Dr Samar Al-Shamaa shares her positive experience applying for paediatric training. With applications opening this month, take a look to get insight into the application process and tips for the interview!
Blog

SAS Careers stories – Supporting career changes

As part of our SAS Careers series, two members share their experience of supporting and navigating career change. Alice and Liz work together in York Hospital and reflect on supporting Alice to transition into a SAS role when leaving training.  
Announcement

Invitation to apply for a fully funded, one-year industry placement

RCPCH is delighted to announce an exciting partnership with Vertex and the Faculty of Pharmaceutical Medicine on the Vertex Physicians in Pharma Programme (VPiPP). This unique, one-year work placement is for clinicians in training who wish to enrich their curriculum and knowledge by understanding an...
Announcement

The delights and challenges of Progress+ on its first birthday

VP for Training and Assessment, Cathryn Chadwick reflects on the first year of Progress+, our two-level training programme. Thanks to the hard work and enthusiasm of all involved, there is much to celebrate - such as new pathways for core training, an emphasis on learning and the bedding in of longi...