ST3 National Selection Success; Nature, Nurture, or Postcode Lottery

Trauma and Orthopedic national selection is a highly competitive process with a competition ratio of 3.02:1 in 2023. Historically London and Thames Valley deaneries have the highest success rates with anecdotally over 75% appointed at the first attempt. Our aim was to improve success rates for trainees in Yorkshire and Humber by implementing a free series of mock interviews and workshops.

Trainees recently appointed through the ST3 interviews, and a good understanding of the national selection process assembled a local faculty. 15 local delegates were identified. There were 3 teaching workshop sessions covering the 4 different interview stations. A total of 32 mock interviews were run, with space for 2 candidates in each interview., 64 interview opportunities meant an average 4 mocks per person. Time was designated within the mocks to give direct feedback to candidates. Data was collected prospectively on each session., Candidates will also asked to self-report their performance in ST3 national selection.

11/15 (73%) candidates successfully achieved a score highly enough to be offered a training post, 10/11 accepted the training post they were offered., 8/10 were appointed to their first-choice training scheme. Candidates who attended 3 or more mock interviews had an 86% success rate, with 73% (8/11) candidates were successful at the first attempt.

A focused ST3 preparation course with appropriately skilled faculty can significantly increase applicant success. Free preparation courses should be widely available to ensure equity for all those applying. As a profession we have a responsibility to support our trainees to enable them to succeed. Regional support may help create a fair interview process allowing us to select the best candidates to be our future colleagues.