I am in my last year of Core training and due to go on maternity leave before I complete the programme, can I still apply for specialty training posts?

Yes. Deferral of the start of training applies equally to trainees who have returned to programme following a prior period of statutory leave. For example, if an applicant has had a period of statutory leave for six months during the final year of core training and thus requires an additional six months to complete the training, providing they otherwise meet the eligibility requirements for specialty recruitment, they can apply for and be appointed to a specialty post and defer the specialty training start date by six months. The period of deferral would not normally exceed one year but in exceptional circumstances and with the Postgraduate Dean’s approval could be extended to a maximum of two years or the doctor would need to reapply for a training post.

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