UK Training Pathway for a Psychiatrist
- February 10, 2022
Training in the NHS offers an extensive training scheme and career development for psychiatrists, with the quality and depth of this programme being recognised as a gold standard throughout the international medical community.
In line with developments and progression in psychiatry across the field and around the world, training provided to UK psychiatry trainees is regularly reviewed and updated. This should make the training programme attractive to UK graduates, as well as IMG psychiatrists seeking the best training programmes for their field and career development.
In this article, we will explore the training pathway for psychiatrists in the UK, with a broad look at the following topics:
- What is the NHS Training Pathway?
- How do you enter the training pathway?
- What does the specialty training programme look like for psychiatry?
- What happens after completing the psychiatry training programme?
- Can I enter specialty training in the UK as an IMG?
The NHS Training Pathway
The NHS training pathway refers to the complete programme for UK trainees, from foundation training to the completion of specialist or higher training, where candidates may be eligible for a CCT within their chosen specialism, such as General psychiatry or any of its sub-specialties.
It is important for IMGs to understand this process, as it clarifies what stage they can most likely enter the system if they are interested in training in the UK.
Entering the NHS Training Pathway
After graduating from medical school, doctors will receive provisional registration from the GMC which allows them to enter the Foundation programme (a two-year work-based training programme).
Upon completion of the first year (FY1), doctors will gain full registration with the GMC and will be able to apply for further study and training in a specialised area, such as psychiatry – for psychiatry, this first stage is known as Core Psychiatry Training (CT).
Specialty Training in Psychiatry
The UK Specialty Training programme in Psychiatry is 6 years long, and whilst doctors may pass through training quicker depending on how quickly they achieve their competencies, this is rarely the case and psychiatrists will usually take the indicated time, or slightly longer to complete the Specialty Training programme.
Successful applicants entering year one of core psychiatry training (CT1), will follow the Royal College of Psychiatrists’ 2017 Specialist Training in Psychiatry Curriculum.
The Psychiatry training programme
The psychiatry specialty training scheme operates both as a run-through and uncoupled programme, though it is more often un-coupled.
Depending on where your application is successful, you may complete your period of core training, as well as the Royal College exams before making a further application for the next stage of training (requiring two applications). Alternatively, you may be able to apply for run-through training, which guarantees you complete both Core and Higher training in one region, as you are recruited for the full duration of Specialty Training.
Foundation Training (FY1 – FY2)
The foundation programme usually involves six different rotations or placements in medical or surgical specialties. These rotations enable trainees to practise and gain competence in basic clinical skills.
Selection
Here, trainees will either choose whether to enter GP (General Practitioner) training, internal medicine training (IMT) or core training in psychiatry (CT).
Core Psychiatry Training (CT1 – CT3)
This part of training takes place from year 1 to 3, where trainees will work and train in several different sub-specialties within psychiatry. They will gain a broad understanding of psychiatry by rotating between 6-month posts in the following sub-specialties:
- General and Community Psychiatry - including Assertive Outreach, Crisis Home Treatment, Outreach for Homeless People, Early Intervention for Psychosis, Rehabilitation and Liaison Psychiatry.
- Old Age Psychiatry - including Memory Clinics, Community Teams, Domiciliary Clinics, Young Onset Dementia, Day Hospital and Liaison Psychiatry.
- Child and Adolescent Psychiatry - including Specialist Adolescent and Academic Psychiatry.
- Substance Misuse
- Learning Disability Psychiatry - including Specialist Asperger Services.
- Forensic Psychiatry - including all levels of security.
By the end of CT3, trainees will need to have completed the MRCPsych exams.
Please note, trainees must pass the MRCPsych Paper A, Paper B and CASC exams in order to progress to higher psychiatry training.
For more information of the Royal College of Psychiatrists examination suite, take a look at our IMG Resources library here.
There are two opportunities per year to apply to core psychiatry training. Information about how to apply, including the person specifications, is available via the North West Deanery, who manage the recruitment process.
Selection
Here, trainees who are not currently training in a run-through programme will make applications to a deanery for higher psychiatry training in their chosen specialty. Selection is open by national competition.
Higher Psychiatry Training (ST4 – ST6)
This training takes place from years 4 – 6, where trainees will complete 3 years of yearly rotations in their chosen speciality, building on their core training and develop increasing levels of competence in clinical psychiatry.
There will also be opportunities to work in other sub-specialties including: addictions, eating disorders, neuro-psychiatry, perinatal and social & rehabilitation psychiatry.
Trainees will usually be allocated a certain number of PAs (programmed activities) weekly for special interest or research purposes. As well as sub-specialty opportunities, these can also be used towards educational opportunities such as local training days/conferences in relevant domains, from clinical leadership to humanities.
Completion of the Psychiatry Specialty Training Programme
Upon completion of the training programme, the choice is made as to whether the trainee will be awarded a Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) in General Adult Psychiatry of one of its sub-specialisms. This will be based on criteria set out in the curriculum by the Royal College. You can find the 2021 curriculum here.
At this point, the psychiatrists are entered onto the specialist register and can now take permanent consultant posts in the NHS.
Specialist Registration for overseas doctors
Doctors who completed part or all of their psychiatry training outside of the UK are eligible for specialist registration through the CESR or CESR-CP pathways. To learn more about specialist registration for overseas doctors, read our blog here.
Joining the Psychiatry Specialty Training Programme as an IMG
It is possible for overseas doctors to join the Specialty Training programme in Psychiatry in the UK, however it is very competitive.
IMGs interested in UK specialty training must have:
- Full GMC registration
- Completion of a minimum 12-month (FY1 equivalent) internship
- English language test
- PLAB
AND
- 12 months post-internship experience by the time you start begin ST1
Although UK trainees are not given priority for specialty training places, it can be very difficult to join the Psychiatry Specialty Training programme without NHS experience.
So here you have it, a broad overview of the NHS Psychiatry Specialty Training pathway for UK trainees. This training scheme is the core of psychiatry training in the UK, and for IMGs looking to join the training programme, understanding of the pathway allows you to better align your overseas training with the relevant stage you wound enter into Specialty Training in the UK.
Getting started
If you have any further questions about the UK training pathway or your route to the UK as an overseas psychiatrist, or would like guidance in finding NHS posts which offer CESR support, please get in touch with us here.
For access to a community of like-minded MRCPsych aspirants and dedicated psychiatry recruiters, join the IMG Psychiatrists Facebook group.
To receive the latest news and updates on all things psychiatry, including the Royal College, GMC registration and the NHS, follow us on social media and join the conversation.
Relevant Jobs
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
A CCT in Child and Adolescent Psychiatry or General Adult Psychiatry, or being within six months of obtaining one, is preferred for this role. Section 12 approval under the Mental Health Act is essential. Candidates with an interest in adolescent mental health care are encouraged to apply. The salary will be between £105,504 and £139,882, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide clinical leadership for a general adolescent inpatient unit focusing on acute mental health needs and short-term treatment pathways.
- Lead multidisciplinary assessments, treatment planning, and case management for adolescents with complex mental health disorders.
- Supervise junior medical staff and contribute to training programs within the service.
- Participate in clinical governance activities, including audits and service development initiatives.
Located in the vibrant North West region of England, this role offers a blend of urban and rural living opportunities. With excellent transport links to major cities and nearby countryside, the area provides a variety of housing, leisure activities, and cultural experiences. Families will benefit from outstanding schools and ample recreational opportunities. The region also boasts a rich industrial and cultural history that shapes its unique character.
HOW WILL IMG CONNECT SUPPORT YOU?
When applying with IMG Connect you’ll have the full support of an expert recruitment team who will be your recruitment and relocation partners throughout the process. We\'ll support you with:
- CV Preparation with a bespoke session with one of our specialists
- Application support with expert knowledge of NHS specialisms & recruitment practice
- At least two video calling interview preparation sessions
- Contract and offer negotiations for salary, relocation packages, tenure, and more
- Document gathering and checking
- COS and Visa Application support if applicable
- Support sourcing short- and long-term accommodation
- Travel arrangements
- Family support for finding schools and any other aspects of pastoral care
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
Full GMC registration, doctors with CCT or close to completing CESR, and those with AC and/or S12 are encourage to apply for this role. Anyone with an interest in community-based multidisciplinary services and patient-focused care should apply. The salary will be competitive and dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Lead and support the community mental health team in implementing transformation programs.
- Collaborate with primary care, voluntary sectors, and local providers to create integrated care systems.
- Provide patient care directly in the community while supervising and guiding the team on care pathways.
- Foster team development through training and shared clinical responsibilities.
This role is based in the West Midlands, a region known for its vibrant cities and scenic countryside. Popular areas include urban centers like Birmingham and quieter towns offering family-friendly environments. The region features excellent schools, diverse leisure activities, and strong transport links, including rail and international air connections.
Historically, this area has been central to Britain’s industrial and cultural growth, offering a rich heritage and modern lifestyle opportunities.
A hospital in the South West of England is looking for a Specialty Doctor in Psychiatry with an interest in community-based acute mental health care. The psychiatry department is well-supported by a comprehensive Home Treatment Team (HTT) and a wider multidisciplinary network. This role is open to both international and UK-based doctors, particularly those with Section 12 Mental Health Act approval or equivalent qualifications from recognized psychiatric bodies.
Candidates requiring support for CESR portfolios will be considered on an individual basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
- Candidates must hold GMC registration and have a minimum of 3 years of psychiatric training or equivalent experience.
- The post is suited to doctors with an interest in mental health crisis care and alternatives to inpatient admission.
- The salary will range between £52,530 and £82,400, depending on experience and grade.
- Conduct psychiatric assessments, including acting as a doctor in Mental Health Act evaluations.
- Work collaboratively with the Home Treatment Team to deliver high-quality, urgent care and reduce hospital admissions.
- Participate in weekly case and risk review meetings within a multidisciplinary setting.
- Engage in clinical governance activities, including audits and quality improvement initiatives.
The South West is renowned for its picturesque coastline, rolling countryside, and vibrant communities. Options for living range from coastal towns with bustling activities to serene rural villages.
The region boasts strong transport links, including rail connections to major cities and convenient access to motorways. Families will find a variety of schooling options, and the area offers numerous leisure activities, from outdoor pursuits to cultural events.
The South West has a rich history, with links to notable figures and contributions to tourism, literature, and maritime heritage in the UK.
A mental health provider in London seeks a Consultant Psychiatrist in Older Adult Psychiatry, with an interest in ECT and dementia care. The position is based on a 14-bedded ward within a newly established mental health campus, supported by a skilled multidisciplinary team. Applications from both international and UK-based doctors are welcome, with preference given to those with MRCPsych or equivalent qualifications.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS:
- GMC registration, Section 12 approval, and Approved Clinician status (or eligibility) are required.
- Relevant experience in older adult psychiatry is essential.
- The salary will be competitive, dependent on experience or grade.
- Lead a multidisciplinary team to provide high-quality care for older adults with psychiatric conditions.
- Manage and supervise the delivery of ECT services, ensuring compliance with clinical standards.
- Mentor and support trainee doctors in a teaching-focused environment.
- Contribute to service improvement initiatives through quality audits and projects.
This lively part of London combines the charm of urban living with access to serene suburbs and green spaces. Residents benefit from excellent schools, diverse cultural attractions, and efficient public transport connecting them to central London. The area’s rich history and modern amenities make it a popular location for professionals and families alike.
Here’s the anonymized version of the job advert:
A UK-based mental health provider is seeking a Senior Specialist in Psychiatry with an interest in memory assessment services for older people. The psychiatry department includes a skilled team of consultants and clinical nurse specialists, offering a supportive environment for career growth. This opportunity is open to both international applications and UK-based doctors, with preference for those holding European Specialist training or MRCPsych qualifications.
Anyone requiring portfolio support (formally known as CESR) can have their required support discussed on a case-by-case basis.
JOB REQUIREMENTS AND DETAILS
- MRCPsych or equivalent qualification is required, along with a minimum of six years in relevant psychiatry roles.
- An interest in dementia and memory-related care is essential.
- The salary will be competitive, dependent on experience or grade.
CORE DUTIES OF THIS ROLE
- Provide senior medical leadership within the Memory Assessment Service (MAS), overseeing complex cases.
- Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to assess, diagnose, and treat dementia and related memory disorders.
- Supervise and mentor clinical staff and contribute to their professional development.
- Participate in service improvement and innovation initiatives.
LIFE IN THE REGION
The region offers a mix of urban living in vibrant towns and peaceful countryside settings, providing options to suit a range of lifestyles. It is well-connected by major transport links and boasts excellent schools, recreational opportunities, and cultural attractions for individuals and families. The area also has a rich history and cultural significance, adding to its charm as a great place to live and work.