British Society of Toxicological Pathologists

Module Objectives

Key Benefits

• Basic training in Toxicological Pathology
• CPD for registered pathologists
• Updates for experienced pathologists
• Preparation for MRCPath examination
• Preparation for ECVP examination

Education

The series of modules covers the basic aspects of toxicological pathology as well as specific information for each organ system.

The modules are intended for participants that have had formal undergraduate training in pathology and are actively working in the field of toxicological pathology.

The basic aspects of pathology as taught at undergraduate level are not covered and the module is not suitable for complete novices.

Refresher

As a refresher for experienced pathologists, the modules serve an important function. Pathologists that have been out of formal education for a long time, or who have been away from bench pathology for a significant period can benefit from attendance at these courses.

Examinations

The information in the modules is also intended to help candidates prepare for the examinations of the Royal College of Pathologists or European College of Veterinary Pathologists, but is not specifically linked to either.

The content of the modules covers many aspects of the material required for professional examinations but is not designed to satisfy any particular examination syllabus or core training programme. The primary aim is to provide a good foundation for a working toxicological pathologist.

Lecturers

The lecturers are mainly senior members of the profession with a lot of experience in their field. Some are working in industry whilst others may be in research or teaching.

When considered appropriate we invite speakers from overseas to deliver part of the courses. These modules may be a rare opportunity to ask questions and benefit from the skills and knowledge of experts who rarely give lectures in Europe .

Please be aware that the BSTP are unable to guarantee that comprehensive lecture notes will be available for every lecture.

Practical Sessions

The time spent in the practical laboratory is very important and we aim to allocate about half of the allotted time to these sessions.

We restrict attendance so that the lecturers can spend sufficient time with the attendees in the practical laboratory.

Continuing Professional Development

In accordance with the requirements of the Royal College of Pathologists and Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, many of our members are committed to a structured form of lifelong learning. The Continuing Professional Development (CPD) schemes administered by these two Colleges require the participants to accumulate a certain number of educational credits every year. In accordance with the schemes for the accumulation of CPD credits, the BSTP is able to allocate RCPath CPD credits for these modules.

Module Organisation

Scientific Organiser - The scientific content of the modules is overseen by a Scientific Organiser, appointed and guided by the Education Sub-Committee. The Scientific Organisers responsibilities include the formulation of the content of the module and the recruitment of suitable people to prepare and deliver lectures.

• Administration - The modules are administered by the BSTP Secretariat. The Secretariat is responsible for the booking and organisation of the venue, circulation of information, processing registrations, collation of course materials and liaison with lecturers and participants.
• All enquiries should be directed to the BSTP Secretariat in the first instance. 
• Venue - Within the budget available, we have to be realistic about the level of sophistication of the facilities we use. The vast majority of modules are placed in University environments, which has proved popular and reasonably accessible to participants and lecturers alike.
• Time - The modules generally start after lunch on Monday to allow participants to travel on the first day and finish at lunchtime on Friday, although in circumstances where the course content requires, they may start earlier or finish later.
• The anticipated timings for lectures are detailed in the module programme.
• Feedback - We rely on the participants' feedback to refine and improve our modules and we supply a form for your comments. The feedback scores and any comments made, are taken into account when planning further modules.

Costs & Housekeeping

• Module Fees - The module fees include all lectures and practical sessions, an information folder (including copies of any notes that we are given by our lecturers) and the Course Dinner. A buffet lunch is provided Monday - Thursday and coffee and tea are available at the appointed breaks. 
• Accommodation & Travel - Although advice about travel and accommodation can be given by the BSTP Secretariat, each participant must make their own travel and accommodation arrangements.
• Booking Terms & Conditions - Listed on the reverse of the Booking Form, this may seem an extensive list, however, it aims to make clear the conditions upon which the BSTP can accept your request to attend. To ensure that participants have read the booking terms and conditions, we ask that they sign the booking form in the appropriate place.
• Special Needs/Special Dietary Requirements - For those with special needs or who have special dietary requirements, please inform the BSTP Secretariat well in advance of the module and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.

Social Events

• Informal gathering - This is a relaxed get-together usually held on the first evening of the module where you will have a chance to talk to other module attendees, some of the speakers, the Scientific Organiser and the BSTP Secretariat in an informal atmosphere, prior to deciding on your evening dining arrangements. Additional information will be included in the information folder.
• The Course Dinner - Attendance at the Course Dinner is now included in the registration fee and we would respectfully ask that the dress code is smart/casual. Additional details will be included in the information folder.