NHS England – Wessex is coordinating a process for recruiting postgraduate doctors in training into ST1 posts in Cardiothoracic Surgery training programmes across regions in England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales with a post start date from August 2026. Completion of a programme will lead to CCT / CESR (CP) subject to satisfactory progression.

Some summary information is included below. However, please see the hyperlinks tab for links to further information about the recruitment process.

When applying to this specialty in this recruitment round, you will not need to give preferences of particular posts, regions, rotations, etc. at the time of applying; just complete and submit an application for the specialty. Should you be subsequently long/short-listed for interview, you will be invited to give preferences of all posts available nationally at a later stage of the recruitment round.

All recruitment to this specialty in this round will be managed by NHS England – Wessex, who will coordinate all long/short-listing of applications, host all interviews, and make offers on behalf of all participating regions.

Applications are equally open to those who may, either from the outset or subsequently, wish to train less than full time or job share.

Please note that there is a strict application policy that applications cannot be accepted after the deadline.

The hyperlinks tab includes a link to the person specification which details the eligibility criteria for this specialty. Before applying please read the Medical Specialty Training person specifications to assess your suitability for the post.

You will also find a link to information about demonstrating your competence for a training post in this specialty. All applicants, apart from those not needing, will need to upload documentation demonstrating they have attained the necessary competence at time of application. It is very important you find out what is acceptable documentation.