Converting Between Old and New Curricula
All trainees in specialty training, starting from 1 August 2007 will be training to the new 2007 curriculum. Trainees appointed prior to this can transfer to the curriculum as well.
Should I Transfer?
The two curricula are different in relation to the learning outcomes and competencies that they require. The 2007 curriculum is also much more explicit about the time available for training and the time at which competencies should be obtained. So it is important to ensure that transferring to the 2007 curriculum is a feasible option. It is important to consider your current status within training and discuss carefully with your educational supervisor and training programme director if you do wish to transfer.
In general for those in full time training it is likely to be beneficial to transfer if you are in the second year in a programme. It is also unlikely to be of benefit to transfer in your final year. In years 3 and 4 it very much depends on how well progress has been made and what outcomes have been achieved.
For people in less than full time training the same considerations apply except that if there is sufficient calendar time available for training then it may beneficial to transfer in year 3 of training as well.
What Should I Do?
Look carefully at the 2007 learning outcomes and compare these with the RITA competencies [pdf] you have acquired. Look particularly at the learning outcomes that you still need. Consider carefully if it is possible to obtain these in the time you have available. If you feel this is feasible then discuss in more detail with your educational supervisor.