Portfolio and CREST form for NHS applications
The CREST (Certificate of Readiness to Enter Specialty Training) form is the standard way IMGs prove they have Foundation-equivalent competence. It is signed by an NHS consultant supervisor and covers clinical skills, procedures and professional behaviours. Alongside it, a portfolio of teaching, audit, quality improvement and reflective practice supports specialty applications.
Who this applies to
- IMGs planning to apply for UK core or specialty training.
- IMGs working in a first NHS post building a supervisor relationship.
Key requirements
| What CREST covers | Foundation-level clinical, procedural and professional competences |
|---|---|
| Who signs it | A UK consultant supervisor who has directly observed you |
| Portfolio extras | Teaching, audit, QI, life-support certs, publications |
Steps
1. Ask your consultant early
Agree at the start of a post that they will sign the CREST form and set observation opportunities.
2. Log evidence in real time
Use an online portfolio (e.g. e-portfolio or a private log) — reconstruction six months later rarely works.
3. Get the form countersigned
The current CREST template must be used; older versions get rejected.
Common failure points
- Asking a supervisor for CREST sign-off after leaving the post.
- Using an out-of-date CREST template.
Official sources
Every fact above should be confirmed against the controlling source before you act on it.