Training
In the UK paediatric training programme, it is possible to sub-specialise in Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes during specialty level training (ST5-ST7). Applications are made through a competitive recruitment process via the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (RCPCH). Those who complete an approved programme of sub-specialty training are eligible to enter the GMC (General Medical Council) specialist register as a paediatrician with a sub-specialty. The RCPCH website has detailed information about the recruitment process
Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes sub-speciality training is usually a 24–36-month programme, full-time equivalent duration. Each autumn, sub-speciality posts are advertised via the RCPCH website and generally start the following September. There are also a smaller number of clinical lecturer posts which may be suitable training positions for doctors keen to pursue an academic pathway. Alternatively, trainees may undertake SPIN training in diabetes to become a general paediatric consultant with a special interest in diabetes.
Research is an important component of a career in Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes. It may be advantageous to undertake a formal period of research before applying for sub-speciality posts. It is also possible to organise research training whilst in a sub-speciality post.
Getting experience in Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes
Trainees are advised to discuss the possibility of a career in Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes with local specialists at an early stage. Not all trainees will have the opportunity to undertake a Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes rotation in Level 1 or 2 training, however there may seek other opportunities to gain exposure to the speciality:
- Attendance clinics by contacting your nearest tertiary centre or the consultant with a specialty interest in your local hospital
- Involvement in quality improvement projects
- Attendance at regional study days
- Attendance and submission of an abstract at national conferences e.g. British Society for Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes (BSPED)
- Membership of relevant professional societies
- Involvement in research
EPSE Syllabus
The ESPE Syllabus was devised in 1996 to set out the minimum requirements for training in Tertiary Care Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes and was updated in 2013. It is noted in the syllabus that whilst a specialist in paediatric diabetes must not necessarily be a tertiary specialist in paediatric endocrinology, a tertiary specialist in paediatric endocrinology must have a good knowledge of diabetes.
Aims of the syllabus are as follows:
- Harmonise training programmes in Endocrinology and Diabetes between different European countries
- Establish clearly defined standards of knowledge and skill required to practice Endocrinology and Diabetes at the tertiary care level
- Foster the development of a European network of competent tertiary care centres for Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes
- Improve the level of care for children with complicated or chronic endocrine disorders
Find out more here ESPE Education & Training Requirements – Espe (eurospe.org
Higher Specialty Training Record
The RCPCH eportfolio is an online educational tool to record learning and is mandatory for all trainee paediatricians in the UK. As a sub-specialty trainee, it is required to record progress in each of the learning outcomes of both the Paediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes sub-specialty syllabus and the Generic Syllabus for Specialty Paediatric Training.
In addition to the deanery Annual Review of Clinical Progression (ARCP), all sub-speciality trainees will be invited to attend an annual College Speciality Advisory Committee (CSAC) Progress review which incorporates a face-to-face meeting with members of the CSAC panel, and completion of mandatory forms by both the trainee and their educational supervisor. A successful outcome for ARCP will only be obtained with a successful outcome for the annual CSAC progress report.
Please contact the CSAC team if you have any questions or concerns regarding your training. Contact details are available on the RCPCH website.