Introduction

Core Surgical Training (CST) is a two-year training programme designed for doctors who wish to pursue a career in surgery. It is a mandatory requirement for those who want to progress to higher surgical training and become a consultant surgeon.

The programme is overseen by the Joint Committee on Surgical Training (JCST) and is delivered by the Royal Colleges of Surgeons of England, Edinburgh, and Glasgow.

In this article, we will provide a comprehensive guide to Core Surgical Training, including its requirements, application process, and career prospects.

Requirements

To be eligible for Core Surgical Training, you must have completed your Foundation Programme and obtained full registration with the General Medical Council (GMC). You must also have completed the Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons (MRCS) examination or an equivalent qualification.

Additionally, you must demonstrate a commitment to a career in surgery and have relevant clinical experience in surgical specialties.

It is important to note that competition for CST is high, and meeting the minimum requirements does not guarantee a place in the programme.

Application Process

The application process for Core Surgical Training is highly competitive and involves several stages.

Firstly, you must submit an online application through the Oriel system, which includes your personal details, academic qualifications, and clinical experience. You will also be required to provide a personal statement outlining your motivation for pursuing a career in surgery.

If your application is successful, you will be invited to attend a selection centre, where you will undergo a series of assessments, including a clinical scenario test, a communication skills assessment, and a structured interview.

Based on your performance at the selection centre, you will be ranked and offered a place in the programme according to the availability of posts.

Training Programme

The Core Surgical Training programme is designed to provide trainees with a broad-based experience in surgical specialties, including general surgery, orthopaedics, urology, and ENT.

Trainees will rotate through different surgical specialties, spending six months in each placement. They will also have the opportunity to gain experience in non-surgical specialties, such as anaesthetics and intensive care.

Throughout the programme, trainees will be expected to develop their clinical skills and knowledge, as well as their communication and leadership skills. They will also be required to complete a portfolio of evidence to demonstrate their progress and competence.

At the end of the programme, trainees will be eligible to apply for higher surgical training and pursue a career in their chosen surgical specialty.

Career Prospects

Core Surgical Training provides an excellent foundation for a career in surgery and opens up a range of career opportunities.

After completing the programme, trainees can apply for higher surgical training in their chosen specialty, which typically takes a further four to six years to complete. They can also pursue a career in academic surgery or surgical education.

Consultant surgeons can work in a variety of settings, including the NHS, private healthcare, and academic institutions. They can also choose to specialise in a particular area of surgery, such as paediatric surgery, neurosurgery, or plastic surgery.

Conclusion

Core Surgical Training is a challenging but rewarding programme that provides an excellent foundation for a career in surgery. It is a mandatory requirement for those who wish to progress to higher surgical training and become a consultant surgeon.

If you are interested in pursuing a career in surgery, we encourage you to explore the opportunities offered by Core Surgical Training and take the necessary steps to meet the requirements and apply for the programme.