Severn FAQs

• University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust

• North Bristol Trust

• Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust

• Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

• SWITA Ultrasound Hub (Taunton Diagnostic Centre) and Spoke (Musgrove Park Hospital)

• Gloucestershire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (Gloucester and Cheltenham)

• Somerset NHS Foundation Trust (Taunton and Yeovil)

ST1 – Building Core Competencies

In the first year (ST1), residents focus on developing core skills in radiography, ultrasound, and cross-sectional imaging to prepare for on-call duties in ST2.
The year includes comprehensive physics and anatomy teaching, with the goal of successfully passing FRCR Part 1.

ST2 –ST3 – Core Sub-Specialty Rotations

During ST2 and ST3, resident doctors rotate through all core sub-specialties, including neuroradiology, paediatrics, and interventional radiology.
A formal regional sub-specialty teaching programme, funded and organised by SWITA, runs throughout the year and is designed specifically for ST2–ST3 residents.
The aim is to achieve FRCR 2A by the end of ST3.

ST4 –ST5 – Focused Sub-Specialty Training

From ST4 onwards, residents begin to tailor their training towards their chosen sub-specialty interests.
ST4 and ST5 residents receive priority when selecting rotations to maximise their experience in areas relevant to their future consultant practice.
The goal during this stage is to pass FRCR 2B (typically during ST4).

• One IR run-through training post is available each year, starting at ST1

• ST4–ST6: Competitive entry into interventional radiology or interventional neuroradiology training is available, with IR on-call responsibilities typically undertaken in ST5 and ST6

• All residents gain independence in basic interventional procedures, supported by excellent regional supervision and training opportunities

Throughout the programme, residents are actively encouraged to engage in research, teaching, and management. Dedicated registrar teaching and management teams, led by consultants, provide structured support and help resident doctors develop skills beyond clinical practice.

An optional annual CV review is available during the Annual Review of Competence Progression (ARCP) to help residents refine their CVs for post-CCT fellowship and consultant applications.

Our programme has an excellent track record of ST5 residents securing post-CCT fellowships or consultant positions aligned with their career goals.

Occasional opportunities are available for inter-deanery transfers, allowing residents from other radiology training schools to join our programme.