Subspeciality
(tertiary) training
Introduction
Most doctors hoping to train as paediatric endocrinologists will
apply for one of the grid posts advertised around the beginning
of each year. Posts start in September and are of 2 years duration.
There are a number of clinical lecturer posts in the UK which
may be suitable training positions for doctors considering a career
as a clinical academic.
NPET UK (Network for Paediatric Endocrinology Trainees UK) is a website established to create an online resource and discussion forum for trainees on the NTN Paediatric Endocrine Grid, and those in training or research with a special interest in Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes in the United Kingdom www.npet.org.uk
UK grid posts in paediatric endocrinology
It is important for doctors starting grid posts at the beginning
of year 4 to ensure that time has been spent in a relevant speciality
in year 3. 2 years is not long enough to train from start to finish
and extra time in clinical endocrinology and research is usually
needed. Doctors starting in year 3 and finishing a grid post at
the end of year 4 will need relevant clinical training in year
5.
Most paediatric endocrinologists feel that research training
is an important component of the tertiary endocrine syllabus.
It may be advantageous to undertake a formal period of research
before applying for grid posts. This provides valuable experience
and expertise, strengthening the individuals Curriculum Vitae
and increasing the likelihood of success at interview. It is,
of course, possible to organise a research training whilst in
a grid post. Doctors without a research training or experience
will be encouraged to acquire or develop this. Trainees are advised
to discuss the possibility of a career in paediatric endocrinology
with local endocrinologists at an early stage. Alternatively doctors
can contact members of CSAC.
The RCPCH have produced a PDF guide to the grid which is available
for download and this will answer many of the queries raised
by doctors who are considering applying for grid posts in paediatric
endocrinology.
European training syllabus in paediatric endocrinology and diabetes
The European syllabus in paediatric
endocrinology and diabetes is an important reference for trainees
in endocrinology and diabetes. It may be difficult for a tertiary
trainee to address this comprehensively in a 2-3 year period of
clinical training. Key areas may therefore need to be highlighted
during discussions between trainer and trainee.
Higher Specialist training record
Doctors appointed to grid posts are encouraged to use the Higher
Specialist training record that is available on the website.
This document should be discussed between trainer and trainee
in the early stages of Higher Specialist Training.
Training Institution / Educational Standards
Secondary (with an interest) training in Paediatric Endocrinology
and diabetes
Most hospitals will have a diabetes service to run and trainees
should feel comfortable with what this entails. There are usually
well established links with the local tertiary endocrine unit
and so the emphasis for a doctor hoping to practice as a paediatrician
with an interest in endocrinology and diabetes should usually
be on the diabetes component of the syllabus. The attached document
‘syllabus for the SpR in paediatric
diabetes’ provides more specific information about the
kind of experience and expertise doctors should be looking to
acquire. Doctors will usually need to spend 12 – 24 months
attached to a diabetes service if they are to train to an appropriate
level. Doctors should also study the European syllabus which provides
information about the kind of endocrine and diabetes experience
required by someone training to secondary level.
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