Training Program Curriculum

Consultation Now Open: Revised Curriculum 

Feedback closing 24 May 2024 

The Neurosurgical Society of Australasia and the Surgical Education and Training Program Board of Neurosurgery has been conducting a review of the current curriculum for the Surgical Education and Training Program in Neurosurgery (SET Program). 

The review is to ensure the curriculum remains reflective of the breath of practice of a specialist neurosurgeon graduating from the SET Program. 

Gaining feedback from as many people as possible, representing the broadest span of stakeholders and public perspectives, is important to us. We now welcome feedback on the draft curriculum no later than 24 May 2024. All feedback must be submitted to [email protected]. 

Download the draft Curriculum

We intend to launch the new curriculum, with feedback incorporated where approved by the SET Board of Neurosurgery, during August 2024. 

Statement of Competence

The overall objective of the SET Program is to produce competent independent specialist neurosurgeons with the experience, knowledge, skills and attributes necessary to provide the communities, health systems and professions they serve with the highest standard of safe, ethical and comprehensive care and leadership.  To achieve the SET Program objectives, competencies for a graduating trainee have been developed in the RACS competency areas. 

Download Statement of Competence   

Curriculum Module

The RACS competencies have been integrated into specific learning outcomes for different training levels which are aligned with the curriculum modules. The learning outcomes are delivered by a number of learning methods and modalities as outlined in the curriculum including structured educational programs, skills courses, self-directed learning and workplace hands on service learning and exploration. 

To assess the accomplishment of the learning outcomes multiple assessment tools and performance based standards are applied to determine the degree of progression towards the competencies and suitability of the trainee to continue training.  To evaluate the effectiveness of achieving the overall objective, the assessment of learning outcomes and other evaluation mechanisms are considered to provide direction on potential improvements to the curriculum, training activities and learning methods and opportunities.  The curriculum modules encompass learning outcomes which are aligned with the curriculum modules for each level of the SET Program.

Neurosurgery is a rapidly changing field and although the Training Board aims to provide a comprehensive, relevant and current curriculum, there may be instances when major changes or new advances in neurosurgery require the trainee to develop competencies not encompassed by the curriculum. The trainee is expected to develop independent learning skills. The curriculum should facilitate the development of those skills. The curriculum should guide and not limit the trainee’s ongoing education

Download the curriculum modules here