Radiologist focussed teaching sessions

Core training covers essential general radiology knowledge and skills that are required of all radiologists. Successful completion is a requirement to allow progression to subspecialty training. The RCR Core training curriculum is extensive and training covers a vast amount of knowledge and skills, meaning a greater emphasis on Academy-based core training. Trainees will benefit from intensive Academy training in combination with clinical apprentice training to achieve a higher level of competency early in the programme.

Core training is composed of three monthly rotations in all modalities and subspecialties and trainees reach the same milestones at the end of each year. This is achieved with a weekly timetable that includes up to three days of Academy.

The intensive Academy training received during core training is in sync with the clinical rotations. This is a unique and novel National Imaging Academy Wales approach to training, where trainees will receive focussed clinical training from Academy radiologists who are experts in their field linked to their three-month subspecialty training rotation.

Academy radiologist focussed teaching sessions will supplement clinical attachments and focus on clinical knowledge, image interpretation and reporting skills required of the core subspecialty rotation. Trainers will also guide self-directed learning in preparation for training sessions.

For the majority of Subspecialties 2, Academy radiologists are appointed to deliver a full day of subspecialty training.

The three-monthly core programme ensures that the training received is the same for all trainees throughout the year and, more importantly, is in sync with the clinical attachment allowing trainees to focus on the relevant clinical knowledge and experience for that subspecialty rotation. It also allows trainers adequate time and close contact to provide meaningful and reliable assessment of a trainee’s performance. This is a unique approach to training offered in the National Imaging Academy Wales.

Academy consultant lead training sessions will include:

• Teaching – tutorials, seminars, interactive case review and reporting sessions
• XR reporting supervision including report checking
• Cross-sectional imaging reporting, supervision and checking
• Ultrasound training and supervision
• MDT observation and training
• Audit & research supervision
• Simulation supervision
• Support for self-directed learning
• Pastoral care

It is anticipated that the training team at the Academy will include Radiographers and Sonographers, alongside Radiologists.

The RCR set out core competencies which must be reached by the end of year three - these are the basic skills that any radiology registrar irrespective of subspecialty should achieve.