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National Recruitment Office for General Practice Training 'extremely happy' with Pearson VUE computer-based test solution for trainee doctors

Strand, LondonLearning NewsPearson VUE

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."

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Media contacts: Jack Gibson, +44 (0)207 010 2139, jack.gibson@pearson.com