Royal College of Paediatrics and Child Health - Aims of The College

Aims of The College

Since the earliest days, the aim of the BPA was the advancement of the study of paediatrics and the promotion of friendship amongst paediatricians. The association in its early days had neither statutory functions nor political influence. The postgraduate training and examination of paediatricians continued to be the responsibility of the Royal College of Physicians, to which most paediatricians also belonged.

The functions and responsibilities of the RCPCH have rapidly expanded since its formation to include the oversight of postgraduate training and examinations. It continues to conduct paediatric research, organise meetings and conferences and to publish papers and guidelines of relevance to paediatric practice.

The College works closely with other bodies that have responsibilities in the same or related areas, including the Department of Health (United Kingdom), the Deaneries, the Postgraduate Medical Education and Training Board, the General Medical Council, NCAS, National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, children's charities and the other Medical Royal Colleges.

The College currently has about 11,500 members, who are mainly hospital and community paediatricians. Most members are based in the UK, though there is an increasing number of members and fellows who live overseas.