Overseas paediatricians taking the postgraduate route to GMC Registration must attain full MRCPCH.
Membership of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health (MRCPCH) can be sat by international doctors from any country in the world provided certain eligibility criteria are met. These are summarised below along with a broad look at the following topics:
The Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health is the professional body responsible for the specialty of Paediatrics throughout the UK. Amongst many other duties, its role is to set and monitor the educational curriculum for those training to enter the profession.
What is MRCPCH?
Paediatricians become full members of the Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health and achieve the designation MRCPCH once they have passed four separate postgraduate medical exams.
The MRCPCH examinations consist of 3 theory exams and 1 clinical exam:
* Theory exams can be taken in any order of preference.
For overseas doctors relocating to the UK, the MRCPCH is one of two options to support full GMC registration (postgraduate qualification or PLAB route). For doctors who wish to take on more senior roles reflective of their current practice, IMG Connect advise that the MRCPCH would be the best route to securing their dream job in the NHS.
Theory Exams:
To be eligible you must hold a Primary Medical Qualification (PMQ) that is recognised by the GMC for registration purposes.
MRCPCH Clinical:
You must pass the 3 theory exams in order to be eligible for the final MRCPCH clinical examination.
All MRCPCH clinical candidates must be proposed by 2 sponsors, who will certify that you have a good period of training in paediatrics and can be considered as ready to take the exam. You can take the exams at any stage in your career, however current advice is that in order to optimise your chances of success in the MRCPCH Clinical examination you should have:
As we mentioned above, candidates for the clinical examinations must have two sponsors who will declare you have covered the required amount of training in paediatrics which matches the exam syllabus and consider you ready to take the exam. You will be asked to provide each sponsors personal and work details, and they will be notified if you receive a poor mark.
The examination is conducted in English and candidates are advised that IELTS Level 7 is the expected standard for completion of the MRCPCH examinations. Remember, you will need to have a pass of 7.5 average in all areas of IELTS to complete your GMC registration.
As above, the MRCPCH examinations consists of 4 parts:
Candidates will sit 3 theory examinations; each test is administered on a computer and the tests can be taken in any order.
There are usually 3 sittings for each exam per year.
Each exam is 2 hours and 30 minutes, unless you have been allocated additional time.
This exam assesses a candidate’s knowledge, understanding and clinical decision-making. It aims to ensure that you have reached the same standard as someone entering core training (ST1 equivalent)
Questions are typically a combination of:
Extended Matching Questions (EMQs) require you to choose the best option from a list of ten possible options, all are feasible, but only one is completely correct.
This tests basic scientific, physiological and pharmacological principles of clinical and evidence-based practice.
It uses the same format for questioning as the FOP exam.
This tests your knowledge, understanding and clinical decision-making based on a standard of someone entering their core specialist training (ST1 equivalent).
The exam uses the format N of Many - giving two or three answers that are required from a longer list.
For example, there can be more than one answer from a scenario since there may be two equally important investigations that should be complete, or three abnormalities from a scan or x-ray.
When sitting the AKP using the format N of Many, remember that each question carries its own weighting – pay attention to how many marks each question is worth in the test and answer accordingly.
The MRCPCH clinical examination forms the final part of the exams. Remember, you must have passed all 3 theory tests in order to be eligible to sit this test.
This test will be taken in a hospital setting and you will follow a circuit of 12 scenarios. You should be familiar with this type of test (OSCE) from your medical training. Examiners will assess performance during each scenario, which will include actors (children, young people and adults).
The aim of the clinical examination is to assess whether candidates have reached the standard in clinical skills expected of a newly appointed ST4 in the UK.
Candidates are expected to demonstrate proficiency in:
The Clinical Exam is guided by important educational principles while holding to the considerable standards of a clinical examination, including the examination of real children.
The Clinical Exam includes 10 objective assessments of each candidate. In most circumstances’ assessment is conducted by a different examiner at each clinical station, so performance at one station does not influence the next station. The test will include six ‘short case’ assessments, emphasising clinical examination. Stations are as follows:
Station 1: Child development – clinical assessment
Station 2 & 5: Communication skills
Station 3: History taking and management planning
Station 4: Clinical video scenarios
Station 6 – 10: Clinical examinations
The order in which candidates will take the circuit will vary. There are 4-minute breaks between stations, the entire circuit takes 152 minutes in total.
Each country fee is different, please see below current exam fees (as of April 2019).
Country |
Theory Exams |
Exam fee 2019 |
India, Malaysia, KSA, UAE, Oman, Myanmar, Sudan, Singapore, Jordan, Kuwait, Malta, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Trinidad |
FOP - single paper |
£390 |
TAS - single paper |
£390 |
|
FOP and TAS - both papers |
£653 |
|
AKP |
£750 |
|
Egypt and Nepal |
FOP - single paper |
£363 |
TAS - single paper |
£363 |
|
FOP and TAS - both papers |
£589 |
|
AKP |
£683 |
|
Hong Kong (HK) |
FOP - single paper |
TBC |
TAS - single paper |
TBC |
|
FOP and TAS - both papers |
TBC |
|
AKP |
TBC |
*Not all countries will offer the exam at each sitting. If you would like to request an exam in another country, you can contact the MRCPCH
Country |
Fee |
UK |
£765 |
Egypt |
£1,145 |
India |
£1,428 |
KSA |
£1,479 |
Malaysia |
£1,255 |
Myanmar |
£1,082 |
Oman |
£1,479 |
Singapore (Conjoint MMED - MRCPCH Clinical fee) |
£1,428 |
Sudan |
£1,220 |
UAE |
£1,479 |
Hong Kong |
TBC |
To apply for the MRCPCH, you first need to register online for exams. You need an RCPCH online account (with an RCPCH number). Then you can complete a short registration form – you will require evidence of your primary medical qualification.
You can register for exams at any time throughout the year. After your registration is accepted, you can apply for an exam but only during relevant open application periods. It takes at least 10 working days to process registration.During exam application periods the Royal College are not able to process registrations.
Register three to four weeks before exam application period opens to help ensure you do not miss your preferred exam diet. The best dates to register for exams are usually January, May and September.
You will need to bring one of the following forms of ID:
Please note, only original documents will be accepted as proof of identification.
With lots of materials online we have discussed with IMGs the best place to start looking for resources and materials relating to the exams. Most IMGs recommended starting with the Royal College, who have created useful resources to help you to prepare for the exams. See below:
Theory Examination Syllabi: This document outlines the syllabus for MRCPCH theory examinations - MRCPCH Theory Examination Syllabi.
Theory exams structure and syllabus: Further information on FOP, TAS and AKP can be found in the theory exams structure and syllabus. This is to be read in combination with the Royal College’s Curriculum for Paediatrics. Within the Curriculum for Paediatrics you can read about the 11 domains and are able to download assessment strategy and generic syllabi for each training level.
Sample Papers: We recommend becoming familiar with the exam format and software, and you can practice with some sample papers here.
Clinical Examination candidate guide: This is a comprehensive guide from the Royal College specifically covering the Clinical Examination. This includes station breakdowns, clinical video scenarios, general instructions and downloads among many other resources.
Anchor Statements: The Anchor Statements outline the expected standard for each station against which candidates are marked. We recommend you familiarise yourself with the criteria points for expected standards before sitting the exam.
Clinical Exam Technique: This guide covers the clinical examination in considerable depth, including:
User guide for video station: A guide for Station 4: Clinical video scenarios can be downloaded here.
Clinical Exam: hints and tipsHints and tips specific to the clinical exam can be found on the MRCPCH clinical examination candidate guide (scroll down to find them).
As ever at IMG Connect, we believe in preparation. In order to succeed in the clinical exam, IMGs have told us that it is vital that you practise your clinical examinations as frequently as possible, preferably under the supervision of a senior colleague. This will give you confidence in approaching and examining children with examiners present.
First of all, congratulations! After you have passed all four parts of your MRCPCH examinations, you can apply for a full registration with a license to practice. Once the GMC have approved your application, you can work as a doctor in the UK.
Search and find live NHS paediatrics jobs
In our IMG Resources library you can read more useful articles on finding an NHS trust doctor job, pay scales & doctor’s salary in the UK, relocation and much more!
Get in touch using the buttons above (and below) to discuss paediatrics job opportunities in the NHS, including discussions regarding a typical doctor salary in the UK and the most suitable hospital locations for you.
We are looking to recruit a Consultant Paediatrician in the Channel Islands, a UK territory sitting off the coast of France and just a 1 hour flight from London. This job presents a great opportunity to advance your medical career in the UK.
The health service, separate from the NHS, is an integrated, taxation-funded system, free at the point of delivery, managed by the Health and Community Services Department on the island. Key benefits of working there are higher salaries than the NHS, lower taxes and sunnier weather.
Consultant Pay range - £110,257 to £164,372
Single rate of tax - 20%.
The Service
The service is committed to delivering high-quality healthcare services to its community. Funded by local authorities, the Trust oversees a comprehensive range of health services including hospital care, public health, and environmental health. With a modern hospital featuring a significant number of acute beds and specialized facilities, the Trust ensures exceptional care for both residents and seasonal visitors. The organization emphasizes excellence in patient care and continuous improvement, making it a prominent healthcare provider in its region.
Department & Team
The Paediatrics Department at this service provides essential care to children and includes a dedicated team of Paediatric Consultants, Staff Grades, and trainee doctors. The department offers a full spectrum of services such as Neonatal Care, Acute Paediatric Medical Care, and Ambulatory Care. With strong links to tertiary centers, the department ensures access to advanced medical treatments and maintains a robust governance system to support high standards of patient care and continuous professional development.
Continued Professional Development
This NHS job offers further training & accreditation within Paediatrics, including CESR Portfolio Pathway Support, access to specialty training, and the opportunity to develop sub-specialist interests. The Trust is committed to your professional growth, providing generous study leave, financial support for relevant courses, and opportunities for involvement in clinical audits and teaching. This support will help you achieve your career goals and meet the requirements for revalidation and ongoing professional development.
Location
The region features diverse natural beauty, including stunning coastlines and scenic landscapes. With a moderate cost of living, excellent educational facilities, and a safe, welcoming community, it offers a balanced lifestyle. The area’s rich cultural heritage and local traditions add to its charm.
Financial benefits
Living in this location offers significant financial benefits. The flat income tax rate of 20% is notably advantageous compared to the UK, and a generous public sector pension scheme is provided, not constrained by UK lifetime or annual contribution limits. The consultant contract closely mirrors the UK model but offers higher incremental levels starting at £110,257 and with a top basic salary of £164,372.
Am I eligible for this role?
UK based candidates:
EEA candidates:
Non-EEA candidates:
An exciting opportunity awaits motivated Paediatricians in the UK to join a dynamic team at the forefront of revolutionizing child health services. This full-time post, tailored for Specialty Doctors in Paediatrics, supports the reconfiguration of child health services in response to recent centralization efforts. Collaboration within a forward-looking General Paediatrics department ensures compliance with standards and ongoing training. Overseas Consultants seeking to establish themselves in the NHS or experienced IMGs are encouraged to apply.
Serving diverse populations, the Health Board provides comprehensive healthcare services across several regions. With a dedicated staff of 11,000, they ensure safe and timely patient care, fostering a positive work environment. The Women and Children\'s Health Directorate plays a crucial role, with a focus on excellence and integrated services.
West Wales offers a blend of rural and urban living, featuring scenic landscapes and quality education options. Convenient transportation links connect to major cities and airports, with varied housing choices available.
The Health Board offers a Consultant Development and Mentoring Programme, aligned with NHS standards, fostering research and development opportunities. Clinical Research Facility initiatives further enrich career prospects.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
Non-EEA Candidates:
UK based applicants
An outstanding opportunity for experienced Consulant in Community Paediatrics to join an NHS Trust that is committed to supporting candidates with CESR. This Trust is one of the largest employers in the region and their members and staff are dedicated professionals whose work is varied, challenging and makes a real difference to people’s health and well-being.
The post is suitable for candidates holding specialisation in the EEA, or for experienced IMGs looking to complete CESR.
WHAT IS THE NHS TRUST LIKE?
The Trust is one of the largest organisations in the country and they employ over 6,000 dedicated staff with an annual turnover of £380 million who provides service to 525,000 people that live within the area. Their services are mainly provided from two district general hospitals, both have Emergency Departments and provide care 24 hours a day. They offer a comprehensive range of surgical, medical and maternity services supported by a full range of diagnostic and therapy services.
The role of the NHS Trust is to provide the best possible healthcare service to patients, who come first in everything the organisation does. Safe patient care is the Trust's highest priority. They will provide high quality clinical services that achieve and demonstrate optimum clinical outcomes and provide an excellent care experience for patients. The employees will be valued and respected. They will be involved in decisions about the services they provide and offered the training and development that they need to fulfill their roles.
They will operate efficiently and effectively, diagnosing and treating patients in timely fashion and expediting their return to health. They will use their resources efficiently and effectively for the benefit of their patients and their care to ensure our services are clinically, operationally, and financially sustainable.
WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The team is a group of people that are dynamic and prioritises their patients. The deparment service runs child development clinics across the county. From the summer of 2021 the main community hub will be at one of their main sites, with satellite clinics in community settings across the county and at two of their major sites. Neuro-disability clinics are run weekly on each side of the county.
All general paediatric consultants in the department provide a service to examine children for physical abuse medicals, when on call. The community paediatricians are involved in cases of neglect, welfare medicals and when called on for advice for physical abuse. Assessments for Autism Spectrum Disorders are multidisciplinary and involve community paediatricians, speech and language therapists and/or clinical psychologists and the specialist community nursing team.
A sleep service has been developed for children with neurodevelopmental disorders and difficulties. This is a multidisciplinary clinic run by a Community Paediatrician, Clinical Psychologist and Nurse Advisor. The Community Consultants will provide clinical supervision, support and education for members of the Community Child Health Team, i.e. the Specialist Grades, Associate Specialist and Specialist Registrar(s) for Community Paediatrics.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN THE REGION?
The region has a natural beauty. Sussex has some fantastic natural features such as the Seven Sisters National Park, and many areas of outstanding natural beauty that include the medieval heathland and forests of the High Weald. It also has beaches and harbours where people can go to during their dayoffs.
Besides its natural beauty, there's a rich array of accommodation options, ranging from the five star Grand Hotel on Eastbourne seafront to quaint B&Bs set amid beautiful Sussex countryside. East Sussex offers a rich array of culture, with art galleries such as the Jerwood Gallery in Hastings and the Towner Gallery in Eastbourne and an array of theatre and entertainment venues such as the De La Warr Pavillion in Bexhill, Congress and Deveonshire Park Theatres in Eastbourne and the White Rock Theatre in Hastings.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU?
If you are a new consultant you will receive mentoring and support from medical leads as well as access to a large peer group of enthusiastic and high-caliber Consultants.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
Non-EEA Candidates:
UK based applicants
An excellent opportunity for an experienced Consultant or Specialist Paediatrician to join the leading provider of specialist child health services in the South East of England. The post if suitable for overseas paediatricians, including candidates who are pursuing CESR. Specialists in Paediatricians, holding a specialist certification would be suitable for this post, based on experience entering at either Specialty Doctor, Specialist Grade (Associate Specialist) or Consultant grade.
Overseas applications from experienced paediatricians looking to secure their first job in the NHS are welcomed.
WHAT IS NHS FOUNDATION TRUST LIKE?
The NHS Foundation Trust is formed by the merger of three NHS trusts in April 2005, with an emphasis on the mental sides of healthcare. The NHS Trust runs a total of 39 sites across their area. They deliver high quality care across our 140 services and they employ over 2,500 staff serving a population of 1.2 million. Their services are provided in community settings, hospitals, and residential homes.
The NHS Foundation Trust is rated "good" overall by the CQC in May 2020. They are the leading provider of health and social care services for people of all ages with neurodevelopmental conditions, neurodisability, mental ill-health and learning disabilities in their area. The NHS Trust has 2,300 excellent staff, and a £155m budget. Their core purpose is to work with people and lead communities in improving their mental and physical health and wellbeing for a better life through delivering excellent and responsive prevention, diagnosis, early intervention, treatment and care.
In 2015, the NHS Trust opened another Hospital, the first major mental health hospital to be erected in Surrey for more than 90 years. The building provides the latest innovations in modern mental health care. This state of the art facility offers people treatment in a light and spacious environment that is therapeutic and promotes wellbeing. It represents a new era of mental health care that focuses on recovery and preventative measures to help people stay well.
WHAT IS THE DEPARTMENT & TEAM LIKE?
The Department is a strong team with a range of skills and interests. Across the Children and Family Health in their area, the establishment consists of 14 full time doctors working in developmental paediatrics: this is a mix of Consultants, Associate Specialists and Specialty doctors. Team wide meetings with all the developmental paediatricians are currently held every month, and incorporate CPD, Clinical Governance and service design.
Paediatric services are delivered in a variety of settings including community clinics, community hospitals and in special schools. The service offers excellent opportunities to develop your skills and is committed to regular training and CPD events. We strive to ensure continued progress and a dynamic approach to development both to you as an individual in your career development as well as for continued service development.
The post holder will provide specialist assessment, diagnosis and ongoing care to children and young people and families in Surrey. The Department offers a supportive and encouraging environment in which to develop as a professional with opportunities to develop in specialist fields.
WHAT IS LIFE LIKE IN THE SOUTH EAST OF ENGLAND?
The area is England's most wooded county and home to rolling hills and valleys, as well as some of the best gardens in Britain. There are so many things you and your family can do, from visiting award-winning vineyards and relaxing at country pubs, restaurants and hotels to exploring ancient heathland, stunning hilltop views, beautiful waterways and charming towns and villages. Life in the area will offer you and your family fantastic schools, beautiful countryside, bustling districts with fantastic leisure opportunities, & historic market towns with a vibrant cafe culture.
There are a wealth of options in the area to give your children the best possible education, whatever type of school you're looking for. The transport is not an issue as well, since there is the Southwest Trains that provide services to and from London Waterloo, and the Southern that operates to and from London Victoria. There are two airports within 20 miles from the area as well.
WHAT OPPORTUNITIES ARE AVAILABLE TO YOU AT THIS NHS TRUST?
With an extremely active education/teaching programme supported by the consultant team, there is opportunity to work towards and complete CESR, RCPsych exams, get involved in active research and many aspects of CPD.
Participation in research and educational activities will be encouraged.
ARE YOU ELIGIBLE FOR THIS ROLE?
EEA Candidates:
Non-EEA Candidates:
UK based applicants