Navigating the Portfolio Pathway (CESR) in Clinical Radiology: A Practical Guide

For international medical graduates or UK doctors who haven't followed a traditional training route, obtaining a Certificate of Eligibility for Specialist Registration (CESR) is an effective route to achieving consultant status in the UK. While the pathway can be complex and time-consuming, with the right preparation, it is entirely achievable.

To help you better understand the Portfolio Pathway process for Clinical Radiology we’ve outlined what you need to know and included several practical tips to help you on your journey.

 

What is The Portfolio Pathway?

Formerly known as CESR, the Portfolio Pathway is the route to specialist registration for doctors who have not completed a GMC-approved training programme, but who are able to demonstrate that they have the knowledge, skills and experience (KSEs) required for practising as an eligible specialist in the UK.

This route allows doctors who haven’t completed a UK CCT (Certificate of Completion of Training) programme the chance to apply for entry onto the Specialist Register, which is required to work as a substantive consultant in the NHS.

 

The Portfolio Pathway process for Clinical Radiology

Before starting the CESR application process, it’s crucial to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. You must have completed a training period that is equivalent to the UK’s specialty training in Clinical Radiology. This could include:

• A recognised qualification in Clinical Radiology.
• Substantial clinical experience (usually a minimum of 5 years) in the specialty.

Your portfolio must demonstrate equivalence to the 2021 Specialty Training Curriculum for Clinical Radiology. The GMC expects that applicants show evidence across all curriculum domains, including:

Professional Training - Details of your formal radiology training and qualifications.

Clinical Experience - Documentation of your clinical practice, procedures, and patient care.

Audit & Research - Evidence of leading teams, handling emergencies, and managing complex situations.

Teaching & Supervision - Record of teaching experience and mentoring of junior staff.

Continuing Professional Development (CPD) - Evidence of ongoing learning and professional development.

 

Building your Portfolio: Step-by-Step Guidance:

Preparing for the Portfolio Pathway is intensive and requires careful planning, evidence collection, and organisation.

1. Curriculum Mapping

Map your existing skills and experiences against the 2021 Specialty Training Curriculum for Clinical Radiology Identify gaps and plan ways to fill them (courses, placements, additional roles)

 

2. Evidence Collection

Gather evidence across all aspects:

• Logbooks of radiological cases (with a broad modality mix: CT, MRI, ultrasound, plain films, etc.)
• Audit projects and QI initiatives
• Appraisal and job plans
• Case reports and reflections
• Certificates from courses and CPD
• Teaching feedback and presentations
• Assessments: Results from workplace-based assessments, such as Multi-Source Feedback (MSF), Case-Based Discussions (CBD), and Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS).
• Management or leadership experience (meeting minutes, rota design, etc.)
• Publications or research involvement

All documents should be anonymised, and in English or translated by a certified translator.

 

3. Structuring Your Portfolio

Use the GMC’s guidance:

Organise evidence clearly Label each document Ensure every piece of evidence is directly mapped to a curriculum competency

 

4. Submission

Applications are submitted online via the GMC portal. The process includes:

Submitting a detailed application form Uploading your evidence Fees payment Awaiting assessment by the GMC and specialty advisory committees

The process takes several months, and you may be asked to provide further information

 

Tips for Success

• Start early and allow plenty of time to gather evidence.
• Be meticulous with organisation and curriculum mapping.
• Seek regular feedback from supervisors.
• Engage professional support early to avoid costly mistakes.