Out of Programme (OOP) allows you to step out of your training programme temporarily — to pursue research, gain experience, complete training elsewhere, or take a career break — while retaining your National Training Number (NTN).
Types of OOP
OOPE (Experience). Clinical or non-clinical experience outside your training programme. International fellowship, leadership role, NHS management position, industry secondment. Does not count toward CCT. OOPR (Research). Research degree (PhD, MD) or dedicated research project. Can count toward CCT if approved prospectively as OOPR-P (Out of Programme for Research — Prospective). OOPT (Training). Training in a different specialty or deanery. Can count toward CCT. OOPC (Career Break). Personal reasons — extended parental leave, health, travel, personal development. Does not count toward CCT.
When OOP Makes Sense
Research degree: an MD or PhD significantly strengthens academic consultant applications and opens clinical academic career pathways. International fellowship: experience in a different healthcare system broadens clinical perspective and is valued by appointment panels. Career exploration: if you are uncertain about your specialty, OOPE can provide exposure before committing. Burnout/recovery: OOPC provides protected time without losing your training number.
Application Process
Apply through your TPD and deanery 6-12 months before planned start. You need: a clear plan for the OOP period (research proposal, fellowship confirmation, or personal statement), agreement on duration (typically 1-3 years), and funding arrangements (for OOPR: research funding or fellowship salary; for OOPE: employer at destination).
Impact on NTN and CCT
Your NTN is held during OOP — you do not lose your training number. CCT date extends by the OOP duration. Exception: OOPR-P can count toward CCT if approved in advance by the specialty training committee — this means research time counts as training time.
Returning to Training
You return to training at the same stage you left. Re-integration support varies by deanery — some offer supernumerary weeks, others expect immediate clinical return. Expect some clinical rustiness and plan for a supported re-entry.