How do I become a Paediatric Neurologist?
The Royal Australasian College of Physicians is ultimately responsible for accreditation of basic training and the advanced training of those wishing to become paediatric neurologists. On successful completion of the training programme you will become a Fellow of the RACP.
The components of paediatric neurology training include three years of basic paediatric training, a written and clinical examination, then two years of core advanced training in clinical neurology with responsibility for patient care, and a year of training in an elective area. One year of a relevant MD or PhD may count for the elective year. Each year of your advanced training is accredited with the RACP by the Advanced Training Committee (ATC) in Neurology. This committee comprises members of the RACP, members of the Australian and New Zealand Association of Neurologists (ANZAN) and a representative of ANZCNS. More information about training requirements, formative and summative assessments can be found on the RACP ATC in Neurology website.
From 2016, core advanced training in paediatric neurology will only be conducted in training positions that have been accredited by the ATC in Neurology as suitable for advanced training. The accreditation of training settings supports the provision of quality training environments with an appropriate balance between teaching and learning, and service provision. A list of sites regarded as appropriate for advanced training in paediatric neurology will soon be available from the Education Officer of the ATC in Neurology and on the ANZCNS website. Please note that the RACP and ANZCNS are not responsible for recruitment or appointment to accredited training positions.
Advanced Paediatric Neurology training posts (2016)
The accreditation of Advanced Paediatric Neurology training posts is undertaken by the Advanced Training Committee of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians, and further endorsed by the Education and Training Committee of ANZCNS. Below are the current accredited Advanced Paediatric Neurology training posts (2016):
| Hospital | State | Training Positions | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|---|
| John Hunter Hospital | NSW | Neurology Fellow | 12 months core |
| Sydney Children's Hospital | NSW | Neurology Fellow 1 | 12 months core |
| Neurology Fellow 2 | 12 months core | ||
| Epilepsy Fellow | 6 months core, 6 months non-core | ||
| The Children's Hospital at Westmead | NSW | Neurology Fellow 1 | 12 months core |
| Neurology Fellow 2 | 12 months core | ||
| Epilepsy Fellow | 6 months core, 6 months non-core | ||
| Neuromuscular/Genetics Fellow | 6 months core, 6 months non-core | ||
| Queensland Children’s Hospital | QLD | Neurology Fellow 1 | 12 months core |
| Neurology Fellow 2 | 12 months core | ||
| Women's and Children's Hospital | SA | Neurology Fellow | 12 months core |
| The Royal Children's Hospital | VIC | Neurology Fellow | 12 months core |
| Epilepsy Fellow | 6 months core, 6 months non-core | ||
| Neuromuscular Fellow | 6 months core, 6 months non-core | ||
| Monash Children’s | VIC | Neurology Fellow | 12 months core |
| Perth Children’s Hospital | WA | Neurology Fellow 1 | 12 months core |
| Neurology Fellow 2 | 12 months core | ||
| Epilepsy Fellow | 6 months core, 6 months non-core | ||
| Starship Children's Hospital | NZ | Neurology Fellow | 12 months core |
International graduates in Paediatric Neurology
Clinicians who wish to practice as a consultant in paediatric neurology in Australia, who have completed their training outside Australia and New Zealand, must apply for specialist recognition through the Australian Medical Council and Royal Australian College of Physicians. Details of this process can be found at www.racp.edu.au.
ANZCNS Trainee Representative
The ANZCNS has a nominated trainee member who can assist with enquiries about training in Paediatric Neurology in Australia and New Zealand and represents the interests of trainees in ANZCNS matters. If you would like further information, please email the ANZCNS trainee representative.