Abstract
Becoming a GP is a significant achievement that requires years of hard work, dedication and perseverance. Passing your exams and completing your training as a GP registrar is a momentous occasion, and it is important to take a moment to celebrate this milestone. However, the journey does not end there. The transition from a registrar to an independent GP involves navigating through a variety of administrative processes, consolidating your clinical skills and focusing on future development. This guide is designed to provide GP registrars with practical advice and a roadmap for the next phase after exams. From ensuring your ePortfolio is complete to registering with the General Medical Council (GMC) and considering future career goals, this article will cover essential steps to help you transition smoothly into independent practice while continuing to grow as a medical professional.
Celebrate your achievement and enjoy the moment
First and foremost, after the exams are over, take the time to enjoy the moment. Passing your exams and completing the necessary components of the Membership of the RCGP (MRCGP) is a huge accomplishment. The exams, including the Applied Knowledge Test (AKT), Simulated Consultation Assessment (SCA) and the completion of your ePortfolio, are rigorous and testing, so be proud of your achievement.
Whether you choose to take a short break, spend time with family and friends, or simply reflect on your journey, taking a moment to appreciate your hard work is an important part of the process. However, once you’ve taken time to unwind, it is crucial to start planning the next steps in your professional development.
Completing the MRCGP: AKT, SCA and ePortfolio
To successfully obtain the MRCGP, it is necessary to complete all three components including the two exams, AKT and SCA as well as the necessary ePortfolio requirements.
It is easy to feel like your ePortfolio is ‘done’ after exams, but this is a mistake. Don’t forget about your ePortfolio. It is essential to maintain this tool as you approach the final months of your training and prepare for your Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT).
The ePortfolio serves as a record of your professional development and completing the required evidence will be crucial for your transition to full registration as a GP. The RCGP provides a useful guide on mandatory evidence that should be included in your portfolio. The Workplace-Based Assessments (WPBA) are important, so be sure to keep up with these assessments. Figure 1 is the mandatory evidence summary sheet.
WPBA requirements: mandatory evidence summary sheet.
Plan the months between exams and CCT
As you approach your CCT date, it is essential to have a plan for the final months of your training. You’ll need to work with your educational supervisor (ES) to ensure that you meet the final requirements, including any additional WPBAs that are needed, as well as leadership activities, patient survey questionnaire (PSQ) and the final educational supervisors report (ESR).
Key areas to discuss with your ES:
Any remaining assessments or activities required to complete your training Your final ESR, which will assess your overall progress and readiness to enter independent practice Plans for professional development post-CCT, including the creation of Personal Development Plans (PDPs) Your PDPs will form the foundation for your first year as an independent GP. Work with your ES to identify key learning goals that align with your career aspirations. These will be reviewed during your first appraisal, usually 12 months after your CCT
Transitioning to independent practice: getting ready for the workload
Once you’re nearing CCT, one of the most important things to focus on is increasing your exposure to the day-to-day reality of being a GP. You’ll need to work yourself up to the speed of regular GPs – this includes taking part in on-call shifts, duty rotas and managing a typical GP workload that includes patient consultations and the associated administrative tasks.
You should aim to spend the final few months of your training:
Seeing an increasing number of patients each day, ideally working alongside experienced GPs Sharing a similar workload, including administrative tasks and patient follow-ups Gaining confidence in managing a full clinical load, which will help you transition smoothly into independent practice once your CCT is awarded If possible, request to shadow GPs who are already established in the practice. This hands-on exposure will help you build confidence and feel more prepared for the responsibilities you will face after completing your training Consider how you may keep up to date as a fully qualified GP. It is important to consider a balance of learning activity for example by listening to medical related podcasts, review of local and national guidance (e.g. National Institute for Health and Care Excellence clinical knowledge summaries or even within clinical meetings in your own practice)
Understanding the costs and process of registration with the GMC
To practice as an independent GP in the UK, you must be registered with the GMC. This is a crucial step in the transition from a registrar to an independent GP. The process for obtaining your GMC registration is outlined clearly by the GMC, and it is essential to understand both the process and associated costs.
As GP registrars and eventually independent GPs, do not forget to update your medical indemnity provider about this change as your subscription fees will increase but are usually subsidised for the first few years. For further details on how to apply for specialist registration (as a GP), visit the GMC website.
Registering with the GP performers list
In addition to GMC registration, you will need to be included on the GP Performers List. This allows you to work as a GP within National Health Service (NHS) England. Primary Care Support England (PCSE) manages the Performers List, and it is essential to complete the necessary forms as soon as possible. Your inclusion on the performers list is required before you can begin work as an independent GP and this also provides you with your individual prescribing code. For more information on how to register, visit the NHS Primary Care Support website.
Financial planning: speak with an accountant
One often-overlooked aspect of transitioning to independent practice is your financial planning. It is very tempting to forget about this but sound financial planning at this early stage will stand you in good stead in the future. Now is the time to meet with an accountant or financial adviser to discuss important financial topics such as:
NHS pensions: how your pension contributions work and how to plan for your future, plus how to access your total rewards statement Income protection: securing insurance in case of illness or injury Tax relief: you may be eligible for tax relief on exam fees, professional memberships (e.g. GMC and RCGP) and indemnity costs. Your accountant can help you with this, as well as with completion of self-assessments
For more information on claiming tax relief for professional fees, visit the HMRC website. More information on costs associated with CCT is provided in Box 1. Typical costs associated with CCT (effective from 1 April 2025).
Certificate of Completion of Training (CCT) to GMC: £497.00.
Medical indemnity: Varies depending on the number of sessions worked, specialist interest roles, private work, etc.
RCGP membership fees: www.rcgp.org.uk/join
Preparing for appraisals and revalidation
It can be very tempting to believe that following your CCT that you are done with ePortfolios. Don’t worry as utilising the ePortfolio can work in your favour.
The appraisal process if you manage to work on it in small chunks can greatly benefit you. It allows you to focus on your goals, achievements of the past and the upcoming year. The appraisal meeting with your appraiser is a chance for you to reflect on your personal and professional lives and a large focus of the appraisal process is on your wellbeing as a GP rather than just purely focussing on your continuous professional development.
Many GP’s feel energised and have an improved morale following their appraisal meetings. The appraisal toolkits are easy to navigate and user friendly.
After your CCT, you’ll need to register for an appraisal system to track your ongoing development as a GP. This is a requirement for revalidation and will ensure that you meet the standards set by the GMC.
Approved appraisal toolkits include:
FourteenFish Clarity
These platforms allow you to upload evidence of your professional development and prepare for your first appraisal. Your first appraisal will take place approximately 12 months after your CCT and is an essential part of the revalidation process.
For more details, check the following resources:
RCGP appraisal and revalidation guide RCGP supporting information for revalidation
Job search and networking
Now that you’re almost at the end of your training, it is time to think about your career options. Speak with your ES, current supervisors, local GP training programme office and the Local Medical Committee (LMC) to inquire about job openings. Additionally, you should consider updating your curriculum vitae (CV) and sending it out to various GP practices. Try not to be too rigid initially if the jobs you want are not available.
Networking with colleagues, mentors and other professionals in the field can also help open doors to opportunities. Whether you’re looking to work as an associate, partner or salaried GP, start the conversation early to understand what roles are available.
Following CCT consider forming a study group with peers that you trained with. This is a useful way to network and gain knowledge or even use the group as a sounding board for any issues you may have. Be careful with not revealing patient identifiable information and, similarly, with the use of social media.
If you decide to continue with your RCGP membership, then consider joining your local RCGP ‘First 5’ group where you can receive guidance on local CPD events, support with appraisals, networking events and much more. For more information, visit the RCGP Membership website.
Working as an independent GP can at times be isolating so forming a community of like-minded people can be beneficial to your mental wellbeing. After obtaining your CCT, you can consider roles in both clinical and non-clinical settings.
Clinical roles include traditional positions such as partnership, salaried and GP with special interest (GPwSI) roles. Additionally, opportunities like out-of-hours (OOH) work are available. More recently, virtual roles offered by private GP providers have become increasingly popular.
Non-clinical roles, on the other hand, may focus on managerial, leadership or educational responsibilities. A great starting point for exploring such opportunities is to speak with your own practice, your local Integrated Care Board (ICB), and your Local Medical Committee (LMC) to learn about available positions. Links to potential job websites are provided in Box 2. Links to potential job websites. Local Medical Committees in the UK British Medical Association. Local Medical Committees
www.bma.org.uk/what-we-do/local-medical-committees
RCGP Jobs Board National Association of Sessional GPs – Locum Deck
Creating and updating your CV is an essential administrative task that should not be overlooked, no matter your level of experience or career stage. Your CV serves as your unique selling point, presenting your qualifications, skills and experience to potential employers. Further guidance on creating and tailoring your CV to suit your career goals can be accessed via the British Medical Association (BMA, 2025).
Approaching the interview process: a key to securing your job in general practice
Once you’ve crafted your CV and submitted your applications, the next step in securing your desired role is often the interview. For many, this part of the job hunt can be intimidating, but, with careful preparation, you can significantly improve your chances of success. There are several key strategies to consider before and on the day of the interview to ensure you present your best self.
Before the interview
Research the practice: Familiarise yourself with the practice’s values, culture and the team you might be joining. Understanding the ethos of the workplace will allow you to tailor your responses to demonstrate that you’re a good fit.
Prepare for common questions: While every interview will be unique, some questions are frequently asked. Prepare for questions like: ‘Tell us about yourself’, ‘Why do you want to work here?’ and ‘How do you manage challenges in a clinical setting?’
Practice your responses: Rehearse your answers with a friend or family member. This can help you gain confidence and refine your responses so that you sound natural and well-prepared.
Prepare questions for the interviewer: Interviews are a two-way conversation. Prepare thoughtful questions about the role, practice culture or expectations. Asking insightful questions shows your genuine interest.
On the day of the interview
Dress professionally: Choose an outfit that is neat and professional. While general practice attire may be more casual, interviews are typically more formal, and your appearance should reflect that. Be on time: Punctuality is crucial. Aim to arrive at least 10–15 minutes early to show your commitment and respect for the interviewer’s time.
Show confidence, not arrogance: While it is important to be confident in your abilities, it is equally important to remain humble and open to feedback. A positive attitude and a willingness to learn will leave a lasting impression.
Communicate clearly: Listen carefully to questions and take your time to formulate thoughtful answers. Avoid rushing or over-explaining – clear and concise responses will showcase your communication skills.
Follow up: After the interview, send a thank you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. This is a professional courtesy that also reinforces your interest in the role.
Wessex LMC provides further information on this.
Health and wellbeing
At times when preparing for your exams, studying or during your training you may have forgotten to look after yourself; for example, by not focussing on your diet sleep or exercise.
Now that your exams are done, it is a great time to focus on these again. It may not even have to be of purchasing a gym membership, it can be as simple as going for regular outdoor walks, taking part in a local run (e.g. parkrun). Your appraiser will discuss these with you during your appraisal meeting. Maintaining your physical and mental well-being is one of the key aspects of reducing the risk of burnout.
If you are struggling with your wellbeing or mental health, there are plenty of resources to help you. Further details are provided in Box 3. Resources to support your wellbeing and mental health. NHS Practitioner Health British Medical Association (BMA) Wellbeing Support Services
Plan for the future: career development and growth
It can be tempting to compare yourself to your peers or senior colleagues, but it is important to remember that your journey is unique. Don’t feel pressured to achieve everything at once. There is plenty of time to explore different career avenues, whether that’s becoming a GP trainer, working with the Integrated Care Board (ICB) or pursuing specialist interests.
Consider using your study leave to attend clinics at the local hospital or community clinics to build on areas of interest that you may wish to purse as a special interest or clinical areas where you feel you need more confidence in managing prior to working as an independent GP.
Remember, saying yes to opportunities, even those that may not initially seem ideal, can be a valuable learning experience and may open doors to future opportunities. Stay open-minded, and don’t hesitate to ask others for guidance or mentorship.
Conclusion
Completing your GP training and passing your exams is a remarkable achievement, but the journey doesn’t end there. The months following your exams and approaching CCT are a critical time for reflection, preparation and planning for the future. By focusing on completing your ePortfolio, understanding the registration process, managing your finances and setting personal development goals, you can transition into independent practice with confidence. Furthermore, by seeking advice from mentors and colleagues, and remaining open to new opportunities, you can continue to grow both personally and professionally in the exciting years ahead.
Key points
Enjoy and cherish the moment of passing your exams
Speak to your supervisors, be organised and formulate a road map of what needs to be done between passing exams and your CCT date
Think about life post CCT and familiarise yourself with the appraisal and revalidation process
Focus on your wellbeing post CCT
GP life can be lonely, so don’t forget to network and form a community of peers for support
