OUT OF PROGRAMME (OOP)

TAKING TIME OUT OF TRAINING

Taking time out of training is a fantastic way of gaining additional skills and experiences that can't be achieved within the confines of the training programme. From research, to clinical fellowships, to travelling across the world there are lots of opportunities to explore out of programme (OOP).

There are 5 different categories of OOP:

1. OOP for Clinical Training (OOPT): Allows the trainee to spend time in clinical training that is outside the usual specialty training programme and is approved prospectively by the GMC

duration normally up to 12 months
includes 'acting-up' as consultant which is limited to 3 months and takes place in final year of training
all durations pro rata for LTFT trainees
time spent OOPT may be counted towards CCT

2. OOP for Clinical Research (OOPR): Allows the trainee to undertake research usually working towards a further degree

duration normally up to a maximum of 3 years, 4-year maximum in exception circumstances requiring Postgraduate Dean approval
time spent OOPR can be recognised towards CCT if curriculum includes research as optional element

3. OOP for Clinical Experience (OOPE): Allows the trainee to gain clinical experience which isn't required by their training programme

duration normally up to 12 months
does not require GMC approval
does not count toward CCT

4. OOP for Career Break (OOPC): Allows a planned career break to pursue other interests

duration normally up to 12 months, with a second year at discretion of Postgraduate Dean
not intended for personal health reasons which should be be managed in the first instance with Lead Employer occupational health services, LTFT or statutory leave for illness
does not count toward CCT

5. OOP Pause (OOPP): This allows trainees to step off the training ladder and undertake work within the NHS or similar patient facing role

duration normally up to 12 months
does not count toward CCT

Trainees must give a minimum of 6 months notice of their intention to undertake time out of training. It is advisable to discuss early with your educational supervisor and training programme director.

The full process for applying for time out of programme can be found on the deanery website, but is summarised here.

Eligibility

Full details on eligibility criteria are available via the GMC Gold Guide (9th edition).

OOP can be applied for if:

A trainee has been in post for one year
A trainee has demonstrated sufficient progress at ARCP with no unmet objectives identified
Prospective notice (minimum 6 months) is provided

Application Process

Paediatric trainees must first meet eligibility criteria (see above).

Following this they must:

Discuss OOP with Educational Supervisor and TPD prior to submitting application
TPD must provide a statement as to whether they support the proposed application which must be attached to application
- If OOPR (Research) is being applied for, the research supervisor must outline programme of research and associated funding
If supported, trainee must inform clinical department of intended OOP start/finish date
Apply for OOP by completing application form and submit to Programme Support Manager (PSM) for School at least 6 months' in advance of proposed start date
Applications will be reviewed by Associate Dean for the School/Postgraduate Dean
If approved, HEE-NW will process this and submit this to the GMC for approval
Final approval is subject to obtaining an ARCP outcome that does not require further development

Application Flowcharts by OOP Type

Useful Forms/Links