The meeting was convened
in response to concerns that trainees expressed via the PTC about
the recent Paper II exam. It was acknowledged that Paper II had
been particularly difficult and the standardisation procedure had
identified this. The depth of knowledge required for some of the
questions would be adjusted to ensure they discriminate between
candidates better. The concerns expressed by trainees would be
considered when compiling the next Paper II exam.
It should be emphasised
that the new Paper I and Paper II exams do not act as a replacement
for the old Part 1 exam as there is the additional knowledge of
basic sciences required for Paper II. The knowledge required
for Paper I can generally be obtained from standard psychiatric
textbooks but Paper II also requires knowledge of important papers
in prominent journals.
It was agreed that the
syllabus would be developed further to contain a greater level of
detail so it is clear to trainees what knowledge is required. It is
envisaged that the syllabus will be divided into knowledge that is
relevant to each of the three written papers to improve
transparency. The breakdown of questions for each paper and
sample questions will continue to be displayed on the website.
The new examination
regulations are now published on the website. Important
changes to note include:
- To reflect the breadth
of knowledge required the length of training required to sit Paper
II, there will be no further transitional arrangement allowing
candidates to take the exam after 12 months. The required time in
training remains at 18 months.
- A pass in Paper III can now be banked for 21
months from the publication of the results.
- The required WPBA can now be spread over a
7-8 month period instead of 12 months.
- 2 ACEs for the purposes of CASC eligibility
can be undertaken in ST1 in either general adult or old age
psychiatry.
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Page last updated on 25th March
2008