Time out of programme

Taking time out of postgraduate psychiatry training in Scotland

Taking time out of postgraduate psychiatry training is a recognised option for resident doctors for various reasons. This page provides an overview of the types of out of programme leave and the general steps to requesting approval.

Out of programme (OOP) is the formal term used for approved time away from your standard training rotation. There are different types, depending on your circumstances:

• Out of programme for training (OOPT)—This is used to complete sub-specialty training or a specific fellowship not available within your training programme. It must be formally approved to count towards your Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT).
• Out of programme for research (OOPR)—Engaging in a period of research, which may count towards your CCT if approved and relevant to the psychiatry curriculum.
• Out of programme experience (OOPE)—Gaining clinical or non-clinical experience that will not count towards your CCT. This could include working abroad or getting experience in a related medical specialty.
• Out of programme career break (OOPC)—A planned break from training for personal reasons, such as caring responsibilities or pursuing other interests. This time does not count towards your CCT.
• Out of programme pause (OOPP)—A more recently introduced option allowing resident doctors to pause their training programme for a period. This may require competencies to be assessed retrospectively.

The specific type of OOP you can take will depend on your stage of training and the purpose of your leave. The Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) guidance and NHS Education for Scotland (NES) policies must be followed.

Time out in core psychiatry training (CT1 to CT3)

During core psychiatry training, you’ll build your foundational knowledge and skills and gain broad experience. Taking time out is possible, but the following types of leave are not commonly requested until after you complete CT1:

• OOPE
• OOPC

OOPT and OOPR, which count towards your CCT, may be considered but are usually requested in higher training.

How to request time out in core psychiatry training

To formally request your time out of programme, follow these general steps for core trainees:

1. Discussion with supervisors—Speak to your educational supervisor and training programme director as early as possible. This is your chance to discuss your plans, feasibility, and the appropriate type of OOP.
2. Application preparation—Complete the necessary OOP application form. You’ll need to clearly outline the purpose, duration, and location of your proposed time out. Guidance about the OOP application process can be found on the Scotland Deanery website.
3. Submit application for deanery approval—Submit your completed application by following the specified process. Allow some time for processing, often a minimum of 6 months. Further approval from the Royal College of Psychiatrists (RCPsych) and the GMC may also be required, depending on the OOP type.

Learn more about time out of programme.

Time out in higher psychiatry training (ST4 to ST6)

In higher psychiatry training, you specialise and work towards your CCT. Out of programme leave is common for OOPT, OOPR, OOPE, or OOPC. Taking a postgraduate training break can provide valuable experience before you become a consultant psychiatrist.

How to request approval for time out of programme in higher psychiatry training

To formally request your time out of programme, follow these general steps for higher trainees:

1. Discussion with supervisors—Speak to your educational supervisor and training programme director early in your planning. Your OOP proposal must align with your overall training path and career goals.
2. Application preparation—Complete the relevant OOP application form and provide the objectives and structure of your proposed time out. For OOPT and OOPR, you’ll need to demonstrate how the experience will align with or enhance your training.
3. Submit application for deanery approval—Follow the specified process to submit your completed application. Early submission, ideally 6 months in advance, is recommended. As with core training, OOPT and OOPR counting towards your CCT will require approval from the RCPsych and the GMC.

Regardless of your training stage, always refer to the latest national guidance for detailed requirements and procedures for requesting OOP. This is known as the Gold Guide. Open communication with your supervisors and the deanery training team is essential.

View the latest version of the Gold Guide.