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The Vital Role of the Assessor in Cervical Cytology Training – Donna Rainey

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In the NHS Cervical Screening Programme, the assessor plays a vital role in guiding trainees through their NHS Training in Cervical Cytology. Training consists of attendance at introductory, follow-up and pre-exam courses, screening of 5000 cervical samples and passing 11 portfolio units.

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Looking back, it’s hard to believe that the last trainee screener in our department started back in 2012 – and at that time, I was just finding my feet as a newly qualified Biomedical Scientist! Fast forward to 2021, and the arrival of a new trainee screener brought a real buzz of excitement (with a fair bit of trepidationÌýtoo) given how much time had passed since we last had a trainee.

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By then, I’d just stepped into a new chapter as the Scottish Cytology Training School Manager. Taking on the assessor role felt like a natural extension of my journey, though I’ll admit, there were plenty of unknowns. Thankfully, I wasn’t going it alone. I received excellent training from Sue Mehew, our Internal Verifier and the Scottish Cytology Training School Director, which immediately put me at ease and gave me confidence that I was in good hands.

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In 2020, with the introduction of Primary HPV screening, Scotland's Cervical Screening, service was consolidated into two laboratories: Glasgow and Monklands. In 2021, both labs welcomed new trainees and a new assessor, creating a sense of solidarity and mutual support as we adjusted to these changes together.

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Reflecting on my time as an assessor, I realise how much I've grown both professionally and personally. Each trainee brings a fresh perspective and unique challenges, which keeps me on my toes and ensures that no two days are ever quite the same. Those initial nerves have long since given way to a sense of purpose and pride in seeing the positive impact I can have on someone’s career journey.

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There are plenty of moments where things don’t go to plan—perhaps a trainee struggles with a particular unit, or unexpected clinical demands shift our schedules. In these instances, adaptability is essential. I’ve learnt to keep communication open and honest, making sure trainees feel comfortable sharing their concerns and celebrating their successes. It’s these day-to-day interactions that really build trust and foster a supportive learning environment.

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I’ve also found that collaborating with other colleagues and departments such as histology and colposcopy has enriched the training experience for everyone involved. When trainees get to observe a variety of approaches and specialisms, their understanding of cervical cytology deepens immeasurably. It serves as a reminder that learning is a shared responsibility, and we’re all better for pooling our knowledge and expertise.

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One of the highlights for me is the moment when a trainee, who perhaps doubted their abilities at the start, finally completes their portfolio and passes that all-important exam. Their sense of accomplishment is evident, and I am pleased to have contributed to their achievements. It is an honour to support their growth and assist them in realising their potential.

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If I could offer any advice to those thinking about stepping into the assessor role, it would be to embrace the journey wholeheartedly. Be patient, be flexible, and never underestimate the value of a kind word or thoughtful feedback. The path may be challenging at times, but the rewards—watching trainees flourish and knowing you’ve made a difference—are truly second to none.

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L – R: Laura Canning, Inzimam Nasar (currently training) and Donna Rainey

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My experience as a new assessor for the NHSCSP Training Portfolio – Laura Canning

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Three years ago I was fortunate enough to be appointed to the position of Team leader for the Cervical Cytology Screening Room, this was something that was an exciting prospect and that would challenge me professionally in a number of areas.

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A critical part of this new role would be to assist in the training of new screening staff, a role that would be completely new to me. When I first realised what would be involved, I was taken aback….thankfully in a good way!!!!

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I had completed my training in Cervical Cytology many years previously (too many to mention) and what I was looking at was something much more advanced and detailed than the old fashioned log book that I had completed. I felt that the role of a cervical screener, whether that be a cytoscreener or a BMS screener, was getting the recognition it deserved, and the resulting qualification gained befitted the importance of the role.

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The main challenges that I have come across have arisen from marking the trainees written submissions and having multiple trainees at the same time.

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Although the learning outcomes are very clearly detailed, I feel that the guidance from the assessor is crucial for the candidate to ensure their written work will comply with the minimum expected content.ÌýÌýThis is where I have massively benefitted from having an experienced assessor to work alongside in my department. Without this support and guidance, I feel that you could feel very isolated and struggle to determine if the learning outcome for the trainee has been achieved.

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Regular meetings with other assessors from Scotland and Northern Ireland, the training school director and manager have been very beneficial. The cross marking exercises and general discussions we have provide a platform for you to raise areas of concern and receive feedback/guidance from peers. Personally, I have found this to be confidence building and a very positive experience.

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Moving on to training multiple candidates at one time. In my head I had a vision that this would be beneficial to both them and us.

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In certain aspects it reduces the workload associated with completing portfolio units as at times learning sessions and multi-header reviews can be combined. However, I failed to take into consideration personalities, attitudes and varied learning needs and candidates must be accommodated on an individual basis.

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On reflection, three trainees didn’t work well in the department as they were at different stages in their training. My personal opinion would be that a maximum of two would work better, especially if their training was coinciding with each other.

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Having a trainee pass their final exam is a mixture of joy, happiness and if I’m honest…relief!!!!

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On a slightly negative note, our experience lately has been that the happiness has been short lived. The last two candidates to successfully pass very quickly afterwards took on new roles which resulted in us losing them from the screening service. This was extremely disappointing as we all know the time, effort, blood, sweat and tears that gets an individual to the end point cannot be underestimated.

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It is however such a privilege to be involved in the training of new screening staff as cervical screening is ever evolving and a very exciting future lies ahead. I look back at diagnostic advances since I trained, and am amazed at how far we have come – from wooden spatulas and glass slides to the advances in digital technology and self-sampling.

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The future for our role may be changing but it is exciting none the less – and screeners will always require training and more importantly encouragement and experience from individuals such as myself.

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Rachel North, Cytoscreener

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