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Training in paediatric and perinatal pathology

To train as a consultant paediatric and perinatal pathologist, you need a medical background. Since the practice of paediatric and perinatal pathology is rooted in the science of human tissue, paediatric and perinatal pathologists train in histopathology before specialising later on.

What are the entry requirements?

To enter training to be a consultant paediatric and perinatal pathologist, you’ll need to:

  • qualify as a doctor
  • register with the General Medical Council (GMC)
  • complete the UK Foundation Training Programme or equivalent.

How long will it take?

It is anticipated that 5.5 years would normally be required to satisfactorily complete the paediatric and perinatal pathology curriculum to the required depth and breadth. This includes 2.5 years of the ICPT (Integrated Cellular Pathology Training)  and 3.5 years of histopathology training to achieve a CCT.

What will my training cover?

Trainees who enter paediatric and perinatal pathology do so from the integrated cellular pathology common stem (or equivalent). This may be from year 2.5 of histopathology training, and trainees will be required to have passed the FRCPath Part 1 examination in histopathology and show satisfactory progress in training via the ARCP process. Trainees will then develop the knowledge, skills and attitudes required for paediatric and perinatal pathology practice as described in the curriculum. Trainees will typically be expected to sit the FRCPath Part 2 paediatric pathology examination following two years of training in the specialty. After passing the FRCPath Part 2 examination, trainees will continue in the programme until CCT

Find out more about specialty training in paediatric and perinatal pathology.

What exams will I need to take?

To complete your training, you’ll be required to pass the following.

  • FRCPath Part 1 in Histopathology – this aims to determine whether you have successfully acquired a core body of knowledge that will underpin your ability to practise in Histopathology.
  • FRCPath Part 2 in Paediatric Pathology – this is designed to test your practical skills and understanding, and show that you can apply your expertise appropriately and safely.

For further information about the format of exams, visit our exams pages.