The Scottish Committee for Orthopaedics and Trauma (SCOT) wish to express dismay and disappointment at the current situation with the publication of FRCS (Tr&Orth) Part 1 exam results. Resident doctors now face an unacceptable delay to find out if they have passed or failed. This will have significant potential ramifications which may delay resits, impact the ability to prepare for part 2 and will impact the health and wellbeing of resident doctors and their families at one of the most stressful times in their career. For some this may impact their CCT date and impact their ability to focus on the progression of their career after the exam. This stressful situation will also create an environment which may impact performance for those that do pass and then sit their part 2 only 2-3 weeks later.

SCOT asks that all consultants in Scotland support affected residents at this difficult time.

While we are aware that the JCIE are working to remedy the situation and welcome them looking at the option of additional exam sittings, it is reasonable to ask that consideration be given to providing appropriate financial compensation recognising the significant expense of exams, preparation and training. 

17 December 2025