Post and Programme Approval Process

An important element of the RCPCH's quality management process is to assist deaneries in obtaining educational approval for new training posts and programmes across the whole training spectrum. This approval is for both academic and clinical posts and programmes.

The role of the GMC: approval process

The General Medical Council (GMC) has sole responsibility for the approval of training posts and programmes. As part of the approvals process the GMC will require a letter of support from the college before any approval is given to new posts, programmes or locations.

In order to gain approval, one of two GMC application forms must be completed;

GMC Form A - Application for the Approval of Specialty Training Programmes

Please do consult the GMC Guidance before completing the form

(This form should only be used in order to apply for approval for an entirely new training programme or major changes to an existing training programme (such as an increase to the MTC))

GMC Form B - Application for approval for a new training post

Please do consult the GMC guidance before completing the form

(This form should be used when training becomes available in an entirely new location where training had not previously existed.   It would normally accompany a Form A, requesting changes to the programme). 

GMC Form C - Application for approval for a new academic training post

(This form should be used when training becomes available in an entirely new location where academic training had not previously existed.   It would normally accompany a Form A, requesting changes to the programme). 

No application will be processed or approved by the GMC until they have received a letter of support from the college

Seeking College approval

It has been agreed with the GMC that college approval for new (academic) training posts/programmes can be given by the (Academic) Regional Advisor for the respective region that the post will be based. If the post is an approved subspecialty post designated for Grid subspecialty training (ST6-8) then approval must also be sought from the Chair of the respective CSAC.

If the approval is required for an increase in the maximum training capacity then there is a separate process to be followed - Maximum Capacity Change Request

Once the Regional Advisor has provided a letter of support please send a copy of the completed form and letter of support to lara.smith@rcpch.ac.uk