What they are for
- Start of post: agree PDP objectives, an assessment plan and dates, and check certificates.
- Monthly tutorial: progress, cases, feedback, what to book next.
- Pre-ESR: numbers, coverage, self-ratings and new objectives.
- When you are behind or worried: agree a written, dated plan early.
Educators' notes record agreements, such as LTFT targets or a plan to catch up. There is no fixed number, but they are your protection if a question arises later. check current RCGP guidance
The numbers by year
| Requirement | ST1 | ST2 | ST3 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Educators' notes and supervisor meetings check current RCGP guidance | no fixed number | no fixed number | no fixed number |
| Personal Development Plan (PDP) | at least 1 new objective per review | at least 1 new objective per review | at least 1 new objective per review |
Full time, per training year unless stated. Less than full time: per-year totals stay the same and each 6-month review needs a pro rata share; 6-monthly ESRs and 12-monthly certificates are not pro rata. Check with your deanery and educational supervisor.
Notes on these numbers
- Educators' notes and supervisor meetings, LTFT: n/a
- Educators' notes and supervisor meetings, confidence: low. Our sources were partly secondary for this item: check current RCGP guidance.
- Personal Development Plan (PDP), LTFT: Same.
How to do it well
- Send a short agenda a few days before.
- Bring three numbers: requirements met, capabilities covered, days to ESR.
- Ask for specific bookings: "Could we book my next COT for the week of...?"
- Raise health, workload or personal issues early; help is easier before an ESR than after.
- Ask for agreed actions and targets to be written in the educators' notes.
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Common ARCP pitfalls
- Meetings that happen but leave no written record.
- Waiting for the supervisor to set the agenda.
- Telling your ES about a problem for the first time at the ESR.