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Review of Competence Progression (RCP)

Progress through Dental Core Training (DCT) is measured via a ‘Review of Competence Progression’ mechanism (RCP) as detailed in the Dental Gold Guide.

What is RCP?

RCP is a structured and evidence-based program designed to document and analyse progress through DCT in order to ensure core competencies are demonstrated by the completion of training. The DCT training year is rigorously monitored through well constructed assessment strategies and the completion of an online portfolio, which is your record of training. Supervised Learning Events (SLEs) such as DOPS (Direct Observation of Procedural Skills) and Case Based Discussions (CbDs) and tools such as Multi-Source Feedback (MSFs) and Patient Satisfaction Questionnaires (PSQs) amongst others, will chart your progress through DCT.

How is progress measured?

Evidence of your progress will be formally assessed twice a year; by the Interim RCP Panel (Interim Review of Competence Progression, six months into your training year) and by the Final RCP Panel (Final Review of Competence Progression, 11 months into your training year). At these panel meetings your online portfolio will be used to analyse the evidence you have collected to support your progress alongside reports submitted by your Educational Supervisor.

Following the panel meeting you will be awarded an outcome based on your progress.

At Interim RCP the available outcomes are:

  • Outcome 1 – Predefined competences being demonstrated at an appropriate rate.
  • Outcome 2 – Development required with specific recommendations regarding the development of further competences during the remainder of the training year.
  • Outcome 5 – Incomplete evidence provided.

All Outcome 5s awarded by the Interim RCP panel are reviewed 14 days later – if the trainee has supplied the missing evidence as listed in the panel report, and this evidence is satisfactory, then the Interim RCP Outcome would be amended to an Outcome 1. If the trainee has not supplied the missing evidence, or the supplied evidence is unsatisfactory, then the Interim RCP Outcome would be amended to an Outcome 2.

At Final RCP the available outcomes are:

  • Outcome 1 – Predefined competences successfully demonstrated.
  • Outcome 3 – Inadequate progress – additional training time required (extension of training for a maximum period of 12 months at the discretion of the local Postgraduate Dental Dean)
  • Outcome 4 – Released from programme with or without specified competences/capabilities (trainees who wish to leave the programme before completion, decline the offer of an Outcome 3, or when the Postgraduate Dental Dean does not recommend further remediation)
  • Outcome 5 – Incomplete evidence provided.

All Outcome 5s awarded by the Final RCP panel are reviewed 14 days later – if the trainee has supplied the missing evidenced as listed in the panel report, and this is satisfactory, then the Final RCP Outcome would be amended to an Outcome 1. If the trainee has not supplied the missing evidence, or the supplied evidence is not satisfactory, then the Final RCP Outcome would be amended to an Outcome 3 or 4.

The RCP process is set out by the Committee of Postgraduate Dental Deans and Directors (COPDEND) and you can read more about the process in the ‘Dental Gold Guide’.

Trainees have the right to appeal a recommendation for an extension to training (Outcome 3) or an Outcome which releases the trainee from the training programme with identified areas of competence that have been demonstrated but without completion of the programme (Outcome 4). Appeals are organised and managed by the Trainee Progression Governance (TPG) team.

For all portfolio and RCP queries please contact Rachel Morgan.