Out of Programme Policy

About this Policy

This policy outlines how doctors in postgraduate training can take time out of their training programme, known as Out of Programme (OOP).

All OOP requests must be agreed in advance by the Training Programme Director (TPD) and Head of School.

Types of Out of Programme (OOP)

You can apply for the following types of OOP:

Out of Programme for Training (OOPT)

Undertake approved clinical training in a post with GMC approval that may count towards your Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT).

Out of Programme for Research (OOPR)

Undertake a period of research, which may contribute to your training if prospectively approved.

Out of Programme for Experience (OOPE)

Gain clinical experience that does not count towards your CCT.

Out of Programme for Career Break (OOPC)

Take time out for personal or professional reasons.

Out of Programme Pause (OOPP)

Undertake NHS or patient-facing work in the UK which may be assessed towards CCT upon return.

Before you Apply

You must:

  • Discuss your plans with your Training Programme Director at least 6 months in advance
  • Ensure your proposal is realistic and supports your training or career goals

How to Apply

  1. Complete the OOP application form
  2. Submit any required specialty-specific forms (if applicable)
  3. Obtain support from your Training Programme Director
  4. Your application will be reviewed by the Head of School

If your application is approved, you will receive formal confirmation from the Education Programme Team.

Approval for Time Counting Towards Training

If you want your OOP to count towards your training:

Royal College Approval

You may need approval from your relevant Royal College or Faculty.

GMC Approval

The General Medical Council (GMC) must give prospective approval.

  • Approval is required if:
    • The post is not in a GMC-approved training location, or
    • It is in a different specialty
  • Approval must be obtained before your OOP starts
  • Retrospective approval is not permitted

Extending your OOP

To request an extension:

  • Speak with your TPD at least 6 months before your planned return
  • Complete and submit a new application form
  • Confirm TPD support as part of your application

If your Application is not Approved

If your application is declined:

  • Discuss the decision with your TPD or Head of School
  • You have the right to appeal to the Deputy Postgraduate Dean

Why Applications may be Declined

Applications are considered carefully and may be declined if:

  • You have been in training for less than 12 months
  • You are in core training (exceptions are rare)
  • You are not making satisfactory progress (non-Outcome 1)
  • There are workforce or service delivery impacts
  • Programme limits on OOP numbers or duration have been reached

Revalidation

  • The Postgraduate Dean remains your Responsible Officer
  • You must maintain your licence to practise

Employment and Pay

During OOP:

  • You will temporarily leave your training programme
  • Your employment transfers to the host organisation

You are responsible for understanding the impact on:

  • Pay progression
  • Continuous service
  • Pension
  • Leave entitlements

Additional Considerations

  • Review guidance on study leave and relocation
  • If you hold a Skilled Worker visa, you must follow relevant sponsorship rules

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