Changes to RCPCH educational activities
As of 18 June 2020, we have cancelled all face-to-face educational courses and events until at least January 2021. We are contacting all individual delegates who are affected by this decision to arrange a full reimbursement of the course or event fee.
We cannot at this stage guarantee when courses will recommence, but we will update this section as soon as any decisions are made about events scheduled after this date. You can read our event cancellation policy. If you have any questions about an upcoming event, please contact our Events team on events@rcpch.ac.uk.
In the meantime, we're busy developing more online professional development opportunities, and look forward to updating you with more details soon.
Online learning resources remain accessible
We offer a range of free online learning resources - including eLearning, podcasts and an archive of past webinars.
As of 1 April 2020, HEE has eLearning materials on COVID-19, which are free and open access. Topics include essential guidance from the NHS, Government, WHO and BMJ, use of personal protective equipment, infection prevention and control and resources for staff working in different settings.
Clarity on RCPCH CPD requirements
We acknowledge the impact that COVID-19 will have on doctors’ abilities to attend courses and conferences, both in terms of their clinical priorities and the cancellation of many courses and events.Our CPD scheme guidelines, which mirror GMC (General Medical Council) CPD requirements, do not require doctors to complete a set number of CPD credits/hours per year or in a five-year period.
We have retained a recommendation for those doctors who wish to follow a credits approach, but it is a guideline, not a requirement. Therefore, doctors should not be concerned about being unable to attend courses, conferences, etc. over the coming months.
Our guidance already indicates that any shortfall in CPD due to extenuating circumstances in a year can be made up in subsequent years within a revalidation cycle. Doctors will continue to learn 'on the job' and reflect on their learning during these unprecedented times.
GMC update on revalidation date postponements
The General Medical Council has updated its guidance relating to revalidation dates in the coming months for those doctors originally due to revalidate before end September 2020. These will now be postponed for a year. Further updates will be added here as they become available.
Appraisal and revalidation
The Academy of Medical Royal Colleges have produced generic FAQs for appraisal and revalidation during COVID-19.
Related links
NHS staff support line
Coronavirus: Your frequently asked questions (GMC link)
Your wellbeing during COVID-19 - resources recommended by members
BMA guidance for retired doctors returning to work
BMA terms and conditions guidance
GMC regulating during COVID-19 pandemic guidance
BAPM webinars - contact BAPM via your NHS email for access if not a BAPM member
BACCH guidance for retired doctors returning to community child health
PICM guidance on flexible working
NHS England and Improvement guidance for retired doctors returning