Out of Programme (OOP) is the process that allows trainees to step out of their training programme for a defined period to pursue opportunities that may or may not contribute towards their Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT).
Types of OOP
There are two categories of OOP applicable for training credit:
- OOPT – Out of Programme for Clinical Training
Undertaking training that is intended to count towards CCT. - OOPR – Out of Programme for Research
Undertaking a period of research that may be considered towards CCT.
Credit cannot be sought for undertaking clinical or other professional experience that will not contribute to CCT (OOPE) or taking time out of training for a career break, sick leave or other personal reasons (OOPC).
Updated Approval Process
We have updated our approach to OOP approvals and now rarely need to seek approval from the relevant Specialty Advisory Committee (SAC). The following process now applies:
- JRCPTB will only issue approval letters for OOPT or OOPR placements abroad or in the UK that are not already GMC approved for your specialty. In this circumstance, please submit the OOP application form for non GMC approved posts.
- If your Postgraduate Dean and Training Programme Director (TPD) have confirmed approval for your OOPT or OOPR and the placement is recognised within the specialty, no further JRCPTB approval is required.
- In these cases, your deanery approval will be sufficient, and you do not need to take additional action with JRCPTB.
Recognition of Training
- Your OOP period will be reviewed at your Annual Review of Competence Progression (ARCP) upon your return to training.
- The ARCP panel will determine how much educational credit of your OOPT or OOPR counts towards your CCT.
- To support this process, you should keep a detailed record of activities undertaken during your OOP, particularly those contributing to Capabilities in Practice (CiPs). These will be considered at ARCP and ratified annually.
Completion of Training
- Your CCT date will be confirmed at your Penultimate Year Review (PYR).
- The PYR takes place approximately 12–18 months prior to the end of your training and is organised by your deanery.
Communication and Updates
It is essential that you keep both your Deanery informed of:
- Any changes to your expected return date from OOP.
- Any changes to your contact details.
This ensures your records remain accurate and that your training progression is managed appropriately.
Summary
- JRCPTB approval is now only required for OOPT or OOPR in non GMC approved locations.
- If your Dean and TPD have already approved a recognised OOPT or OOPR, no further JRCPTB action is needed.
The contribution of OOPT/OOPR to CCT will be reviewed at ARCP, and your CCT date confirmed at PYR.