Prepare
Exam format
The exam tests your knowledge and competence in the assessment and management of disability, including subject areas referred to in the Paediatric Rehabilitation Medicine Advanced Training Curriculum (PDF).
Two papers – Paper A and Paper B – are separate assessments taken on the same day.
You must get a satisfactory mark in both papers to get an overall pass.
Paper A (SAQ)
10 min reading time | 3.5 hour exam | 8 short answer questions (SAQs) based on scenarios from curriculum
Questions are prepared and chosen by the Faculty Paediatric Training and Assessment Committee. They reflect current training and practices in paediatric rehabilitation medicine.
Paper A consists of 8 SAQs. The questions require you to outline your approach to the management of a case, discuss the implications of a form of treatment, describe the contents of your report on an issue, etc. The question format allows you to customise your knowledge to practical applications.
The exam tests your ability to:
- evaluate and assess complex clinical or administrative problems
- communicate relevant information clearly and briefly in a limited amount of time, either in dot points or a few lines (as provided)
- exercise judgment in determining priorities
- demonstrate an awareness of the importance of sensitive interdisciplinary planning and liaison
- adopt an orderly, logical and mature approach to current areas of debate and controversy in disability management
Paper B (MCQ)
10 min reading time | 3 hour exam | 130 multiple-choice questions (MCQs) covering a range of subspecialties
Each MCQ includes 4 answer options with only 1 correct answer. See Paper B MCQ sample.
The facts being tested are related to the curriculum in terms of:
- common functional disorders
- treatments in Paediatric Rehabilitation Physicians
- management options involving more than one clinical discipline
- measurement of outcomes
Note: These weightings are target percentages of topic areas used to develop the MCQ exam. Actual content breakdowns can vary. Questions can belong to more than one topic area.
Readings
Alexander, M. A. & Matthews, D. J. 2015, Pediatric Rehabilitation: Principles and Practice, 5th edition, Demos Medical.
American Academy of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation
Suggested learning resources (p 35-38) in Paediatric Rehabilitation Medicine Advanced Training Curriculum (PDF)
Preparation tips
Practice your approach
A supervisor or mentor can help you with practice questions. Go through your thought process out loud with them as you construct an answer. Using this approach with them may help you obtain valuable feedback and a better insight into your approach to the questions.
Organise and equip yourself
Having a quiet, comfortable place where you can study is important. Find a way to study that best suits your individual learning style. Develop a study plan and revision timetable. Use different learning approaches such as flashcards, mind maps, diagrams or opportunities to teach others as part of your revision.
Study with others
The shared experience of studying with others has helped many trainees feel more motivated, confident and on-track during the crucial preparation period.
Many have joined (or created) a group that was supportive, met regularly, shared resource ideas and provided an environment conducive to constructive feedback.
The RACP Trainee Facebook group (closed group) is a space for you to meet with other trainees and share experiences, tips, events and ideas as well as receive trainee information from the RACP.
Attempting the exam again
Meet with your supervisor or mentor
If you are actively training, meet with your supervisor, or your mentor if you are on interruption of training, to talk through your previous attempts at the exam. Your supervisor or mentor is likely to have valuable insights to share about areas you need to focus on and areas to improve.
Use the Improving Performance Action Plan template and plan your study to maximise time spent on these focus areas. For example, once a week you could spend time on each area to make sure you have a thorough understanding of each topic.
You could also ask your supervisor or mentor to share trial case studies and cross-reference them with the Paediatric Rehabilitation Medicine Advanced Training Curriculum (PDF).
Repeat what worked
What study materials did you use last time? What was helpful and what wasn't? Review your materials as well as look for other valuable study materials and opportunities, especially any onsite learning that's available to you.
Support
Preparing for and sitting exams can place significant stress and pressure on your physical and mental health. Even after an exam, you may still feel the effects of the stress you experienced.
You’re not alone in managing these difficulties. The RACP Support Program provides a professional and confidential counselling service to all our Fellows and trainees, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Make an appointment or speak directly with a consultant on 1300 687 327 (Australia) or 0800 666 367 (Aotearoa New Zealand).
Resources
Paediatric Rehabilitation Medicine Advanced Training Curriculum (PDF)
Education policies
Progression Through Training Policy (PDF)
AFRM resources