Effective 7 August 2024: The RCOG will launch revised Special Interest Professional Modules (SIPMs), and APM will no longer be available for new registration. Trainees starting ST6 from August 2024 must undertake SIPMs; those already enrolled in APM can complete it by 7 August 2026.
APM overview overview and guidance
The Clinical Research APM has been developed to help obstetricians and gynaecologists to develop the skills needed to support strong clinical research. On this page, you’ll find everything you need to know about these optional training modules.
The RCOG recommend that professionals in any of the following groups consider undertaking the APM in Clinical Research.
- O&G trainees who have an interest in academic training at any stage during their specialty training programme; the most appropriate stage to consider undertaking the module will be from ST3 onwards
- NHS consultants and doctors to develop their clinical research skills and knowledge
- Trainees who are undertaking subspecialty training or are aiming to achieve a subspecialty training post. The module provides an alternative option for completing the research component for the subspecialty training programme.
For doctors in training, the APM and research opportunities should be delivered within the allocated training time. Online resources, relevant courses and authorised external study will support trainee progression through the programme.
Progression through the modules will be reviewed during individuals’ Annual Review of Competency Progression (ARCP). There won’t be an adverse ARCP outcome if trainees struggle on the programme.
The APM is competence based; you complete the APM by attaining all of the required competences.
The ability to undertake and complete the module should be agreed between both the doctor in training’s educational and clinical supervisor.
APM training is delivered by the APM Academic Educational Supervisor. It isn’t necessary for the APM Academic Educational Supervisor to work in the same unit as the doctor undertaking the module, although both APM Academic Educational Supervisor and doctor should be in the same region.
To support trainees through their advanced training, we provide comprehensive resources and guidance documents. These documents ensure that trainees have access to all necessary information and support materials.
- Definitive Document for the Advanced Training Curricula (2019 - GMC approved): This document contains full details of all the Advanced Training Skills Modules, Advanced Skills Modules, and Advanced Professional Modules. Please use this as a reference point.
- Guidance documents for 2019 advanced training curriculum: Embedded in the ePortfolio and available on RCOG Learning.
- Training matrix of educational progression: See our guidance documents developed to support the advanced curriculum on the RCOG eLearning website.
APM completion
Once you have completed your APM, and all components have been completed to the satisfaction of your Preceptor and Educational Supervisor, please follow the below steps for completion:
1. Download the APM Completion Form
- Complete and sign the form
- Obtain required approvals from:
- Educational Supervisor
- Clinical Supervisor
- Preceptor
- SITM Director (previously known as ATSM Director)
- Send the completed form to specialinterest@rcog.org.uk who will issue your completion certificate.