Training Radiology training has changed over the past few decades.  The training period  consists of 5 years with years 1-3 spend in core training and years 4 and 5 in  subspecialty/ higher training. The Royal College of Radiologist's curriculum recognises  three levels of training, core, level I and level II. All trainees are expected to achieve  core competencies. All Radiologists would probably have level I competency and  would practice as consultant radiologists with an area of special interest. Level II  competencies refer to monospecialists who are expert in their domain, like a  musculoskeletal radiologist. The Mersey Training Scheme The Mersey Training Scheme is a 5 year programme tailored to the Royal College of Radiologists recommendations and  curriculum.  Year 1 Aside from clinical attachment, there is 1 full day each week at the Mersey School of Radiology, University of Liverpool,  for formal teaching. The MSR structured educational programme covers anatomy, radiological physics and radiographic  techniques, and systems based pathology and scan interpretation. All trainees have access to facilities provided by the  University of Liverpool with computer and library access via a student card.   A formal Ultrasound training and assessment programme runs concomittantly through the year via a parnership with the  School of Health Sciences led by Mrs. Julie Walton, Former President of the British Medical Ultrasound Society.  At the end of the year, there is a formal deanery led examination which has to be successfully cleared before starting on-  call placements. Trainees are also expected to clear FRCR Part 1 Anatomy and Physics.  Years 2 and 3 Emphasis is on teaching pathological radiology integrated with anatomy and radiological techniques. Trainees are  placed in specialist centers for experience in paediatric radiology, neuroradiology, oncology, cardiac imaging and nuclear  medicine including PET CT etc. There is 1 full day each week at the Mersey School of Radiology, University of Liverpool  dedicated to formal teaching for year 2 trainees. In year 3 there is protected half day teaching organised at the University  or base hospital. Most trainees clear FRCR 2A and some are expected to attempt FRCR 2B at the end of Year 3.  Years 4 and 5 Time is spent in subspecialty training and clearing FRCR 2B. Trainees are encouraged to produce research and present  their work at major meetings. Clinical Lecturer and lead SpR posts are available in year 5. There are local Fellowships in  Paediatric Radiology, Interventional Radiology, Radionuclide Radiology, Neuroradiology and Musculoskeletal Radiology. Established in 2002