National Recruitment Office for General Practice Training 'extremely happy' with Pearson VUE computer-based test solution for trainee doctors
The National Recruitment Office for General Practice Training (NRO), the body which co-ordinates the nationally agreed and quality assured process for recruitment to GP Specialty Training Programmes, has successfully launched its first ever computer-based testing solution in partnership with Pearson VUE.
The NRO has commended the leader in computer-based testing for
delivery of its Stage Two Assessment - consisting of Clinical
Problem Solving and Professional Dilemmas sections - designed to
assess some of the essential competences outlined in the National
Person Specification.
Converting to computer-based testing has generated significant
benefits for the NRO and its candidates. Traditionally, the NRO
delivered the Stage Two Assessment - which forms the shortlisting
process enabling it to rank candidates before allocating them to
Deaneries for Stage Three Selection Centres - via the often
laborious and time consuming process of paper-based testing. With
General Practice remaining the largest specialty medical training
programme in the UK, the NRO sought a more accessible and advanced
testing solution. After extensive consultation and the delivery of
two pilots, Pearson VUE entered into an exclusive multi-year
partnership with the NRO.
The first tests to be delivered during the partnership were
administered in Pearson Professional Centres located within close
proximity to hospitals and NHS trusts throughout the UK.
Critically, candidates were given a choice of taking their test
within a six-day period - ensuring that the NHS did not lose
multiple professionals on a single day.
Dr. Richard Jones, Stage Two Convenor for the NRO, said:
"I was extremely happy with the first delivery of
computer-based testing for our candidates and impressed with the
support that we received from Pearson VUE staff. We look forward to
working with Pearson VUE over the coming years."
The comprehensive solution gives candidates the choice of not only
where but also when they can sit the exam. A six-day assessment
window allows exams to be rescheduled due to circumstances such as
severe weather, providing a more flexible scheduling process for
the NRO and its candidates.
Suzana Lopes, Pearson VUE, VP EMEA Sales and Marketing,
added:
"Our ability to provide the most secure and dependable
computer-based testing solutions allows NRO candidates to progress
with their careers quicker than ever before. I am delighted that
the NRO's decision to assess candidates via the most innovative
form of testing is, as expected, proving hugely
beneficial."
Ends
Media contacts: Jack Gibson, +44 (0)207 010 2139,
[email protected]