The OST Curriculum must be used in conjunction with 18 syllabi, which provide instructions and guidance on how to meet each Learning Outcome, and which capabilities must be evidenced by the ophthalmologists in training in their ePortfolio.
The high-level, overarching Learning Outcomes capture the skills, knowledge and behaviours required by ophthalmologists in training and are mapped to the Generic Professional Capabilities (GPCs) framework.
The curriculum is delivered through a variety of learning experiences. Ophthalmologists will achieve the capabilities described in the syllabus through a variety of learning methods in a variety of settings. There will be a balance of different modes of learning, from formal teaching programmes to experiential learning ‘on the job’.
The Programme of Assessment specifies the range of assessment tools to be used by ophthalmologists in training to develop and demonstrate their knowledge and skills throughout their time in training.
The majority of learning will be work-based experiential learning. Ophthalmologists in training will learn from practice (work-based training) in urgent eye care, out-patient clinics, in-patient reviews, providing an on-call service, pre- and post-operative ward rounds, theatre, the community setting and multi-disciplinary meetings. In all training environments, after initial induction and training to use ophthalmic examination equipment, trainees will review patients under direct supervision. The degree of responsibility will increase as competency increases. Ophthalmologists in training should see a range of new and follow-up patients and present their findings to their clinical supervisors. Learning is maximised by active participation and timely, constructive feedback.