European training programme in paediatric haematology and oncology.

The European Board of Paediatrics has recommended for all paediatricians a three-year Common Trunk training in basic paediatrics, followed for tertiary care specialists, by three years of training in the relevant specialty. Paediatric Haematology and Oncology is a complex specialty with a broad range of activities, ranging from the care of children with leukaemia and solid tumours including those of the central nervous system, to all types of non-malignant haematologic disorders and laboratory haematology pursuits. A modular training programme has been recommended to provide a broad standard of training across the whole specialty which should last at least 18 months, and a further period of 18 months that may be used flexibly to prepare trainees for their anticipated future careers.