About this course
The Primary FRCA Viva Course is an intensive 3-day exam preparation programme designed for anaesthetic trainees preparing for the Royal College of Anaesthetists' Primary FRCA Structured Oral Examination (SOE) in May 2026. Run by the Mersey School of Anaesthesia (MSA), a leading provider of FRCA examination preparation, this course focuses on viva technique, examiner insight, and practical experience in the examination format rather than comprehensive revision.
The course uses an innovative "Magic Roundabout" format, where trainees rotate through 60 different viva scenarios covering the four core examination stations: Pharmacology & Physiology and Clinical & Physics/Measurement/Equipment. Each session lasts 30 minutes, and candidates experience both the examiner and candidate perspectives. This dual-role approach builds confidence and understanding of what examiners expect. The programme also includes introduction sessions on viva technique and the Royal College of Anaesthetists' expectations, plus insights into the examiner experience itself.
Importantly, the MSA emphasises that candidates should only attend when they consider themselves **fully prepared** for the imminent examination. This is not a revision course, nor is it designed to teach foundational knowledge. Instead, it provides exposure to exam-style questions, opportunities to practice under examination conditions, techniques for refining performance, and peer learning from fellow candidates. Trainees should expect long hours and hard work, but participants report the course as both enjoyable and beneficial.
The course takes place 13–15 May 2026 at the Village Hotel in Whiston (postcode L35 1RZ), running from 13:00 on Wednesday through 17:30 on Friday. Full attendance throughout is mandatory — the course format is affected if candidates miss sessions. The fee is £350, and breakfast, lunch, refreshments, and car parking are all included. Prior to attendance, applicants will receive preparatory homework that must be completed.
Please note: due to extremely high demand, applications cannot be accepted from candidates who have previously held and failed to use a place on this course, those who have partially or fully attended before, or those not sitting the May FRCA SOE Exam. Re-attendance is not permitted; the course is offered only once per candidate.
