istructe professional review

The Institution ofThe Institution of

Structural Engineers Structural Engineers

Yorkshire BranchYorkshire Branch

Young Members GroupYoung Members Group

The IStructE The IStructE

Professional Professional

ReviewReview

byby

Steve GarritySteve GarrityPast Member: Applications & Professional Review PanelPast Member: Applications & Professional Review Panel

Past VicePast Vice--Chairman: Examinations PanelChairman: Examinations Panel

Past Member: Membership CommitteePast Member: Membership Committee

Member: Joint Board of Moderators (JBM)Member: Joint Board of Moderators (JBM)

Professional Review Interview CoProfessional Review Interview Co--ordinator (Yorkshire Branch)ordinator (Yorkshire Branch)

PART 1 : PREAMBLE

Route to IStructE QualificationsRoute to IStructE Qualifications

The Educational BaseThe Educational Base

Applying for Associate Membership or MembershipApplying for Associate Membership or Membership

Initial Professional Development (IPD)Initial Professional Development (IPD)

Contents

PART 2 : THE PROFESSIONAL REVIEW

The Professional Review Interview (PRI)The Professional Review Interview (PRI)

The AM or CM ExaminationThe AM or CM Examination

PART 3 : QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

PART 1

PREAMBLE

Route to IStructE Qualifications

This structure is defined This structure is defined

in in UKUK--SPECSPEC by the by the ECECUKUK

–– it applies to all it applies to all

engineering professions engineering professions

and is the same for all and is the same for all

grades of registrationgrades of registration

Complete the Complete the

Educational BaseEducational Base

Complete Initial Complete Initial


Development (IPD)Development (IPD)

Pass the Pass the


ReviewReview

Awarded Awarded EngTechEngTech, IEng or , IEng or

CEng by CEng by ECECUKUK licensed licensed

member (e.g. IStructE)member (e.g. IStructE)

Demonstrate commitment to Demonstrate commitment to

Continuing Professional Continuing Professional

Development (CPD)Development (CPD)

A-M Minimum standard = Minimum standard = BSc(Ord) in civil engineering

(accredited to IEng level by the JBM) (accredited to IEng level by the JBM)

or or HND or HNC + “further learning”HND or HNC + “further learning”

or or Sydney Accord qualifications (from Australia, Canada, (from Australia, Canada,

H.K., Ireland, N.Z. & South Africa)H.K., Ireland, N.Z. & South Africa)

CM Minimum standard =Minimum standard = MEng in civil engineering

(accredited to CEng level by the JBM)(accredited to CEng level by the JBM)

oror BEng(Hons) (accredited to CEng level by JBM)BEng(Hons) (accredited to CEng level by JBM)

plus “further learning”plus “further learning”

oror Washington Accord qualifications (from Australia, (from Australia,

Canada, H.K., Ireland, N.Z., South Africa & USA)Canada, H.K., Ireland, N.Z., South Africa & USA)

The Educational Base

Notes

1.1. JBM = Joint Board of Moderators (includes IStructE members)JBM = Joint Board of Moderators (includes IStructE members)

2.2. TheThe Individual case procedure exists for candidates who do not exists for candidates who do not

hold an accredited degree or equivalent.hold an accredited degree or equivalent.

3.3. A technical report can contribute towards the educational base aA technical report can contribute towards the educational base as s

“further learning” (contact IStructE for further details)“further learning” (contact IStructE for further details)

a).a). Complete Form AM or Form M, as appropriate (both forms can

be downloaded from the IStructE website: www.istructe.org)

Don’t forget to include supporting documentation as indicated

on the form (e.g. 2 page experience report; IPD final report

forms – see form AM/M & website)

Make sure form is completed fully & clearly & is signed by

required number of supporters – errors could mean delay!

b).b). Send forms & accompanying docs to IStructE HQ no later than

1st September in the year immediately before you intend to sit

the annual AM or CM examination. (Suggest you work to a

deadline of 15th August!)

c).c). The Membership section (at HQ) will review your application; if

OK, application is approved by Applications & Professional

Review Panel, then Membership Committee, then Council.

d).d). Result: Elected graduate member of IStructE and allowed to

proceed to Professional Review.

Applying for Associate-Membership or Membership

Hence, before applying for AM/Mbefore applying for AM/M, it may be worth contacting the

Institution to check:

a). If your degree is accredited to the appropriate level.

Usually BSc degrees are accredited to IEng and BEng(Hons)

& MEng are accredited to CEng.

WARNINGWARNING! Some universities offering degrees accredited

only to IEng level do not make it clear that their degrees are

not accredited to CEng level!

b). If you need to complete “further learning” to achieve the

educational base (e.g. a Masters degree if you have a

BEng(Hons) degree accredited to CEng)

NOTE: Educational Base

Initial Professional Development (IPD)

IPD ….. “ comprises the acquisition and IPD ….. “ comprises the acquisition and

development of the specialist knowledge and skills, development of the specialist knowledge and skills,

and their practical application, that are needed to and their practical application, that are needed to

practise as a Structural Engineer.”practise as a Structural Engineer.”

“It bridges the gap between your educational base “It bridges the gap between your educational base

and attaining professional qualifications”and attaining professional qualifications”

“The Institution defines IPD in terms of core “The Institution defines IPD in terms of core

objectives, which are defined to minimum standards”objectives, which are defined to minimum standards”

Some Institution definitions:

Initial Professional Development (IPD)

�� It has long been recognised that professionally qualified It has long been recognised that professionally qualified

structural engineers need a wide range of specialist personal, structural engineers need a wide range of specialist personal,

technical and managerial skills to compete in the modern, technical and managerial skills to compete in the modern,

developing world.developing world.

�� The Institution has defined The Institution has defined 13 IPD core training objectives

that reflect the minimum standards of knowledge, range of that reflect the minimum standards of knowledge, range of

skills and practical experience that someone seeking to skills and practical experience that someone seeking to

become professionally become professionally qualified qualified should have attained.should have attained.

�� Each core objective has a minimum standard set by the Each core objective has a minimum standard set by the

Institution.Institution.

�� Candidates must be able to demonstrate that they have Candidates must be able to demonstrate that they have

completed all 13 core objectives to the required standard completed all 13 core objectives to the required standard

before they can become professionally qualified.before they can become professionally qualified.

�� They are called “They are called “corecore” objectives as they are all considered ” objectives as they are all considered

by the Institution to be essential requirements for by the Institution to be essential requirements for

professionally qualified structural engineers.professionally qualified structural engineers.

The IPD Core Objective Standards

AA AAPPRECIATIONPPRECIATION Candidate should have a general

appreciation of the subject and how

it might affect or integrate with other

subjects.

KK KKNOWLEDGENOWLEDGE Candidate should have a

knowledge and understanding

of the subject.

EE EEXPERIENCEXPERIENCE Candidate should have carried

out the subject (of the core

objective) at least under

supervision.

BB AABBILITYILITY Candidate should have carried

out the subject (of the core

objective) without supervision

and be competent to advise

others.

3 Categories (for A3 Categories (for A--M and CM)M and CM)

PersonalPersonal (2 out of 13)(2 out of 13)

EngineeringEngineering (5 out of 13)(5 out of 13)

ManagementManagement (6 out of 13)(6 out of 13)

and Commercialand Commercial

IPD Core Objectives

IPD Core Objectives – Chartered Members

Personal

Institution (Min. Standard K)

Communication (Min. Standard B)

Engineering

Conceptual Design (Min. Standard B) (E for A-M)

Analysis and Design (Min. Standard B)

Materials (Min. Standard B)

Environment (Min. Standard K)

Construction (Min. Standard E)

Management and Commercial

Management Skills (Min. Standard E)

Law (Min. Standard A)

Health and Safety (Min. Standard E)

Commercial Awareness (Min. Standard A)

Contract Documentation (Min. Standard K)

Quality Systems (Min. Standard K)

IPD Core Objectives – Chartered Members

Personal

Institution (Min. Standard K)

Communication (Min. Standard B)

Engineering

Conceptual Design (Min. Standard B)

Analysis and Design (Min. Standard B)

Materials (Min. Standard B)

Environment (Min. Standard K)

Construction (Min. Standard E)

Management and Commercial

Management Skills (Min. Standard E)

Law (Min. Standard A)

Health and Safety (Min. Standard E)

Commercial Awareness (Min. Standard A)

Contract Documentation (Min. Standard K)

Quality Systems (Min. Standard K)

Note that 6 out of the Note that 6 out of the

13 core objectives have 13 core objectives have

a standard of either a standard of either

AAppreciation or ppreciation or

KKnowledge.nowledge.

In most cases, there In most cases, there

can be little excuse for can be little excuse for

failing these core failing these core

objectives??objectives??

Candidates should be Candidates should be

able to gain A or K able to gain A or K

standards by carrying standards by carrying

out some simple out some simple

research??research??

IPD Core Objectives

�� The Institution has provided a set of guidance notes for The Institution has provided a set of guidance notes for

each core objective. This is available from the Institution in each core objective. This is available from the Institution in

the form of an IPD file.the form of an IPD file.

�� All the core objectives plus All the core objectives plus guidelines are available on the guidelines are available on the

Institution’s website Institution’s website www.istructe.org.uk

�� The guidelines are The guidelines are meantmeant to help the trainee, their mentors to help the trainee, their mentors

or supervisors and the reviewers.or supervisors and the reviewers.

�� It is It is not essential to follow the guidelines exactly…not essential to follow the guidelines exactly… BUT BUT it IS it IS

essential to complete all 13 core objectives to the required essential to complete all 13 core objectives to the required

standardstandard..

�� Note that reviewers are encouraged to exercise a measure Note that reviewers are encouraged to exercise a measure

of judgement when assessing if standard A has been of judgement when assessing if standard A has been

achieved instead of K but will be much stricter with achieved instead of K but will be much stricter with core core

objectives with E and B standards.objectives with E and B standards.

�� Examples of some of the core objectives and the guidelines Examples of some of the core objectives and the guidelines

are now shown ……are now shown ……

1.0 1.0 PERSONALPERSONAL

1.1 1.1 INSTITUTION INSTITUTION (Minimum standard K)(Minimum standard K)

ObjectiveObjective: : Knowledge of the Institution and involvement in Institution Knowledge of the Institution and involvement in Institution

affairsaffairsGuidance Note:

The Candidate should demonstrate a knowledge of the structure and purpose of the Institution

of Structural Engineers, together with an awareness of the Institution’s Code of Conduct.

Where appropriate and practical the Candidate is expected to have an involvement in

Institution affairs, for example attendance at technical meetings and seminars. The objective

could typically be met by attendance at three Institution events per year or equivalent

involvement in other professional Institution or relevant CPD activities. The Candidates may

list their involvement with a brief overview of all activities and an in-depth commentary on two

events.

The Candidates should have an appreciation of the Institutions of other disciplines.

IPD Core Objectives - MIStructE

1.21.2 COMMUNICATION COMMUNICATION (Minimum standard B)(Minimum standard B)

ObjectiveObjective: Ability to demonstrate effective communication and : Ability to demonstrate effective communication and

interpersonal skillsinterpersonal skillsGuidance Note:

The Candidates should demonstrate competence in effective communication and inter-

personal skills using written, oral and visual media.

Where resources permit the Candidate should demonstrate the ability to communicate via IT

links, produce spreadsheets and database documents.

The Candidate should develop an ability in writing letters, summaries and reports, both factual

and interpretative.

Where appropriate the Candidate should develop drawing skills to be able to produce drawings

to illustrate concept appraisals, feasibility studies and initial design details.

The Candidate should have the ability to prepare and deliver presentations, project précis or

design concepts etc.

The Candidate should have an appreciation of the skills of other professionals in the

construction team and demonstrate an ability to work as an effective member of the team.

2.02.0 ENGINEERINGENGINEERING

2.12.1 CONCEPTUAL DESIGN CONCEPTUAL DESIGN (Minimum standard B)(Minimum standard B)

ObjectiveObjective:: Ability to produce viable structural solutions, within the scopeAbility to produce viable structural solutions, within the scope

of a design brief, taking account of structural stability, of a design brief, taking account of structural stability,

durability, aesthetics and costdurability, aesthetics and cost

Guidance Note:

The Candidate should demonstrate competence in conceiving approximated scheme solutions

to assess the viability of alternative materials and forms of construction

2.52.5 CONSTRUCTION CONSTRUCTION (Minimum standard E)(Minimum standard E)

ObjectiveObjective:: Experience in construction techniquesExperience in construction techniques

Guidance Note:

The Candidate should demonstrate experience in construction techniques, construction plant

and machinery, temporary support systems, material testing procedures, construction

programmes, construction sequencing, etc.

Ideally, the candidate should complete a period of site experience on one or more construction

projects, which is relevant to this Core Objective, i.e. it is mainly related to structural

engineering elements.

It si recognised that not all candidates will be able to spend a continuous period on site for any

significant length of time and in such cases they will be expected to accumulate experience to

an equivalent of 3 months. A record should be kept by the Candidate of all site-related matters,

e.g. meetings, visits, inspections, surveys, testing procedures, supervision checking etc, which

will count towards their aggregate period of site experience.

It should be noted that the actual period of site experience is indicative only and the emphasis

will be on the quality of experience rather than the quality.

New from New from

1/1/071/1/07

3.03.0 MANAGEMENT AND COMMERCIALMANAGEMENT AND COMMERCIAL

3.1 3.1 MANAGEMENT SKILLS MANAGEMENT SKILLS (Minimum standard E)(Minimum standard E)

ObjectiveObjective: : Experience in management skills for programming and controlExperience in management skills for programming and control

Guidance Note:

The Candidate should demonstrate experience in the following aspects of management and

leadership.

i) Project team management and leadership skills

ii) Programming and project control

iii) Liaison and interface management

The Candidate’s skills may typically include the programming and control of manpower,

project resources, finances and administrative support.

The Candidate should demonstrate experience in managing the interfaces and exchanges of

information with other disciplines

3.23.2 LAW LAW (Minimum standard A)(Minimum standard A)

ObjectiveObjective: : Appreciation of the law and statutory legislationAppreciation of the law and statutory legislation

Guidance Note:

The Candidate should demonstrate an appreciation of the Law of the construction industry

with respect to statutory legislation, Health and Safety legislation, insurance, contract law, and

the contractual obligations effective within the construction industry, relevant to the

candidate’s location.

�� The IPD core objectives are subject to revision by the The IPD core objectives are subject to revision by the

Institution.Institution.

�� The latest revision (3The latest revision (3rdrd edition) was introduced on 1edition) was introduced on 1stst

January 2007.January 2007.

�� The principal changes were to objective The principal changes were to objective 2.52.5 (Experience of (Experience of

Construction Techniques Construction Techniques –– change in the guidance note) change in the guidance note)

and and 3.33.3 (Experience in Health and Safety requirements and (Experience in Health and Safety requirements and

legislation legislation –– minimum standard changed from K to E).minimum standard changed from K to E).

�� The 3The 3rdrd edition will be used for candidates sitting the PRI in edition will be used for candidates sitting the PRI in

2008 (and thereafter).2008 (and thereafter).

�� Make sure that you are working to the current version of the Make sure that you are working to the current version of the

core objectives!core objectives!

Important Notes: IPD

Help with IPD?

�� From 24From 24thth January 2008, the Yorkshire Branch (in association January 2008, the Yorkshire Branch (in association

with the School of Civil Engineering at the University of Leeds)with the School of Civil Engineering at the University of Leeds)

will run a series of seminars (16:00 will run a series of seminars (16:00 –– 19:00hrs) on various IPD 19:00hrs) on various IPD

core objectives.core objectives.

�� The seminars will cover topics such as law for the structural The seminars will cover topics such as law for the structural

engineer; sustainability & the environment; procurement; engineer; sustainability & the environment; procurement;

quality standards; cost considerations; health & safety risk quality standards; cost considerations; health & safety risk

management management -- primarily those core objectives with A or K primarily those core objectives with A or K

standards.standards.

�� Covered within a module called “Covered within a module called “Structural Engineering

Practice” ” –– part of MSc in Structural Engineering. (Approved by part of MSc in Structural Engineering. (Approved by

IStructE IStructE HQ).HQ).

�� You can attend the full set of 9 seminars (total cost £450You can attend the full set of 9 seminars (total cost £450--00) or 00) or

each seminar separately (cost per seminar = £60) (NOTE: prices each seminar separately (cost per seminar = £60) (NOTE: prices

subject to confirmation).subject to confirmation).

�� If interested, email If interested, email [email protected]@leeds.ac.uk with your contact with your contact

details.details.

�� When a trainee (and his/her supervisor or mentor) considers When a trainee (and his/her supervisor or mentor) considers

that all 13 core objectives have been achieved at the standard that all 13 core objectives have been achieved at the standard

required by the Institution, the trainee should then be ready torequired by the Institution, the trainee should then be ready to sit sit

the Professional Review.the Professional Review.

�� It is likely that it will take It is likely that it will take at least 3 years to complete all at least 3 years to complete all

13 core objectives to a satisfactory level13 core objectives to a satisfactory level. Some core objectives . Some core objectives

can only be achieved when the trainee has been given greater can only be achieved when the trainee has been given greater

responsibility by their employer. responsibility by their employer.

�� The IPD core objectives provide a The IPD core objectives provide a training frameworktraining framework

for graduate trainees AND their employers. The core for graduate trainees AND their employers. The core

objectives should be seen as a target for all trainee objectives should be seen as a target for all trainee

engineers.engineers.

�� Now consider the Professional Review …..Now consider the Professional Review …..

IPD Core Objectives

PART 2

THE PROFESSIONAL REVIEW

The IStructE Professional Review

2 Parts:

1. The Professional Review Interview (PRI)

2. The A-M or CM examination

(Note: CM exam. Is formerly known as the Part 3 Exam.)

Important Notes:

�� Candidates will only be allowed to sit the ACandidates will only be allowed to sit the A--M or CM M or CM

examination when they have passed the PRI.examination when they have passed the PRI.

�� Any candidate who fails to pass the AAny candidate who fails to pass the A--M or CM M or CM examination 5 examination 5

times, will be required to retake (and pass!) the PRI before times, will be required to retake (and pass!) the PRI before

they will be allowed to rethey will be allowed to re--sit the examination.sit the examination.

�� This rule started from and includes the April 2002 This rule started from and includes the April 2002

examinations.examinations.

The Professional Review Interview (PRI)

�� Organised by the Institution’s Branches or Divisions.Organised by the Institution’s Branches or Divisions.

�� Each Branch/Division has a PRI Coordinator.Each Branch/Division has a PRI Coordinator.

�� PRI Coordinator is responsible for training the Reviewers, PRI Coordinator is responsible for training the Reviewers,

organising the Interviews and reporting the outcome back to organising the Interviews and reporting the outcome back to

HQ (within 7 days of the Interview!).HQ (within 7 days of the Interview!).

�� PRI Coordinator receives the applications for APRI Coordinator receives the applications for A--M or CM M or CM

from Institution HQ (HQ checks that the Institution’s from Institution HQ (HQ checks that the Institution’s

educational base requirements are satisfied).educational base requirements are satisfied).

ThenThen

�� Organises the interviews (and subsequently reports the Organises the interviews (and subsequently reports the

outcome of each interview back to HQ).outcome of each interview back to HQ).

ThenThen

�� Matches the Reviewers to the candidates (ensure that at least 1 Matches the Reviewers to the candidates (ensure that at least 1

reviewer has practical experience that is relevant to that of threviewer has practical experience that is relevant to that of the e

candidate).candidate).

At the Interview

�� The candidate will be required to give a brief introduction of The candidate will be required to give a brief introduction of

his/her experience since graduation his/her experience since graduation without computers, computers,

projectors, etc. projectors, etc.

�� This is expected to take 10 to 15 minutes.This is expected to take 10 to 15 minutes.

�� The candidate will be required to bring a portfolio of his/her The candidate will be required to bring a portfolio of his/her

work to the interview. (This is very helpful to illustrate key work to the interview. (This is very helpful to illustrate key

points to the reviewers)points to the reviewers)

During the interview, the During the interview, the onus is on the candidate to demonstrate to demonstrate

to the Reviewers:to the Reviewers:

a).a). That all 13 IPD core objectives have been achieved at the That all 13 IPD core objectives have been achieved at the

required standard (i.e. A, K, E or B)required standard (i.e. A, K, E or B)

b).b). That the candidate has a commitment to Continuing That the candidate has a commitment to Continuing

Professional Development (CPD). Trainees are advised to Professional Development (CPD). Trainees are advised to

keep a Personal Development Record and bring it to the keep a Personal Development Record and bring it to the

interview.interview.

After the Interview

1.1. Institution HQ will inform candidates of the outcome of their Institution HQ will inform candidates of the outcome of their

PRI, in writing (by early Jan?).PRI, in writing (by early Jan?).

2.2. Candidates passing the PRICandidates passing the PRI, will be allowed to sit the A, will be allowed to sit the A--M or M or

CM examination (as appropriate). Exam form must be submitted by CM examination (as appropriate). Exam form must be submitted by

end of February.end of February.

3.3. Candidates failing the PRICandidates failing the PRI, will be required to resit (and pass) , will be required to resit (and pass)

the PRI before progressing to the Athe PRI before progressing to the A--M or CM examination.M or CM examination.

4.4. The earliest opportunity available to resit the PRI will be the The earliest opportunity available to resit the PRI will be the

following year that following year that PRIsPRIs are held.are held.

5.5. This allows the failed candidate sufficient time to remedy any This allows the failed candidate sufficient time to remedy any

deficiencies before the next Adeficiencies before the next A--M or CM examination in the M or CM examination in the

following April. following April.

The Reviewers are The Reviewers are notnot allowed to give candidates allowed to give candidates anyany

feedback during or after the interview!feedback during or after the interview!

If the candidate has failed 3 or less core objectives …..If the candidate has failed 3 or less core objectives …..

�� When they When they resitresit the Interview, they will only be required to the Interview, they will only be required to

demonstrate to the Reviewers that they have reached the demonstrate to the Reviewers that they have reached the

required standard in the 3 core objectives that they failed. required standard in the 3 core objectives that they failed.

�� (and the candidate’s submission to the Institution will only be (and the candidate’s submission to the Institution will only be

required to focus on the 3 failed objectives).required to focus on the 3 failed objectives).

If the candidate failed more than 3 core objectives …..If the candidate failed more than 3 core objectives …..

�� He/she will be required to address all 13 core objectives He/she will be required to address all 13 core objectives

at the at the resitresit Interview.Interview.

Re-sitting the Interview

Demonstrating IPD

3 alternatives:3 alternatives:

�� Individually Managed IPDIndividually Managed IPD

�� Accredited Training Schemes (e.g. structural Accredited Training Schemes (e.g. structural

engineering aspects of training gained under engineering aspects of training gained under

an ICE training scheme)an ICE training scheme)

�� Retrospectively Collated IPDRetrospectively Collated IPD

Individually Managed IPD

�� Candidate is responsible for managing their own IPD with Candidate is responsible for managing their own IPD with

the help of a Mentor.the help of a Mentor.

�� Mentors should, preferably, be workMentors should, preferably, be work--based and a chartered based and a chartered

structural engineer structural engineer –– must be capable of providing and must be capable of providing and

being committed to providing guidance, advice and training being committed to providing guidance, advice and training

opportunities.opportunities.

�� Not essential to keep the same Mentor throughout the period Not essential to keep the same Mentor throughout the period

of IPD (changes in employment of candidate/mentor).of IPD (changes in employment of candidate/mentor).

�� Candidate expected to keep records of training (using forms Candidate expected to keep records of training (using forms

provided by the Institution), a development action plan, a provided by the Institution), a development action plan, a

final record of their training and a personal development final record of their training and a personal development

record.record.

�� Submission will normally consist of a 2Submission will normally consist of a 2--page experience page experience

report, a final report form for each of the 13 IPD core report, a final report form for each of the 13 IPD core

objectives (signed off with supporting comments by the objectives (signed off with supporting comments by the

mentor), examples of work and a copy of the P.D. record.mentor), examples of work and a copy of the P.D. record.

Accredited Training Schemes

�� Most likely is the training scheme of an organisation Most likely is the training scheme of an organisation

that has been approved by the I.C.E., H.K.I.E., etc.that has been approved by the I.C.E., H.K.I.E., etc.

�� Candidates should try to keep a set of records, as in the Candidates should try to keep a set of records, as in the

case of the Individually Managed Route. The Progress case of the Individually Managed Route. The Progress

Summary Report Forms, provided by the Institution, are Summary Report Forms, provided by the Institution, are

helpful in this regard.helpful in this regard.

�� The personal and management/commercial objectives are The personal and management/commercial objectives are

likely to be very similar to the development objectives in likely to be very similar to the development objectives in

the ICE, HKIE the ICE, HKIE training schemes.training schemes.

�� The Engineering objectives must be structural The Engineering objectives must be structural

engineering related!engineering related!

�� The submission must include details of the training The submission must include details of the training

agreements plus the 2agreements plus the 2--page experience report and 13 IPD page experience report and 13 IPD

final report forms.final report forms.

Retrospectively Collated Route

�� Requires the candidate to prepare a detailed submission to Requires the candidate to prepare a detailed submission to

demonstrate how they have achieved the 13 core training demonstrate how they have achieved the 13 core training

objectives (at the required standard) by using:objectives (at the required standard) by using:

The final core objective report forms;The final core objective report forms;

A 2A 2--page experience report;page experience report;

plus a supporting portfolio of work.plus a supporting portfolio of work.

�� PRI interview is likely to be more onerous?PRI interview is likely to be more onerous?

�� Candidates must have a good “feel” for what is required as Candidates must have a good “feel” for what is required as

they will have little (or no?) guidance from a mentor. May be they will have little (or no?) guidance from a mentor. May be

helpful to seek the services of an external mentor?helpful to seek the services of an external mentor?

�� Detailed submissionDetailed submission –– suggest that a file is created with 13 suggest that a file is created with 13

sections (1 for each core objective). Each section should sections (1 for each core objective). Each section should

start with the final core objective report form and should be start with the final core objective report form and should be

followed by any supporting evidence followed by any supporting evidence –– this makes the this makes the

submission “reviewer friendly”.submission “reviewer friendly”.

Introduction of the Core IPD Training Objectives and the ProfessIntroduction of the Core IPD Training Objectives and the Professional ional

Review Interview will (hopefully):Review Interview will (hopefully):

�� Provide improved and consistent guidance for graduates seeking Provide improved and consistent guidance for graduates seeking

Associate or Chartered Membership (and for training providers).Associate or Chartered Membership (and for training providers).

�� Result in better engineers (more able to meet the challenges of Result in better engineers (more able to meet the challenges of

2121stst century century –– H&S, legal, environmental, sustainability)?H&S, legal, environmental, sustainability)?

�� Help to produce examination candidates that are better prepared Help to produce examination candidates that are better prepared = =

higher success rates ???higher success rates ???

�� Personal experience?Personal experience? The PRI seems to have worked well in the The PRI seems to have worked well in the

Yorkshire Branch. All interviews are held on the same day at a Yorkshire Branch. All interviews are held on the same day at a

single venue single venue –– this seems to work well for about 18 to 20 this seems to work well for about 18 to 20

candidates per year! candidates per year!

�� Candidates generally seem to be well prepared. There is growing Candidates generally seem to be well prepared. There is growing

evidence that evidence that some employers are using the core objectives as a employers are using the core objectives as a

training guide in reviews/appraisal meetings.training guide in reviews/appraisal meetings.

�� The better prepared candidates generally perform best @ the The better prepared candidates generally perform best @ the

interview!interview!

Summary

The IStructE Examinations

The Exams – Some Facts

�� Examination duration = Examination duration = 7 hours7 hours (A(A--M and CM)M and CM)

�� AA--M candidates are required to M candidates are required to answer 1 question from a choice of answer 1 question from a choice of

66 questions (2 concrete; 2 steel; 1 bridge; 1 general)questions (2 concrete; 2 steel; 1 bridge; 1 general)

�� CM candidates are required to CM candidates are required to answer 1 question from a choice of answer 1 question from a choice of 88

questions:questions:

Questions 1 and 2Questions 1 and 2: usually structural steelwork solutions (other : usually structural steelwork solutions (other

materials acceptable)materials acceptable)

Question 3Question 3: bridge engineering structure.: bridge engineering structure.

Questions 4 and 5Questions 4 and 5: usually structural concrete solutions (other : usually structural concrete solutions (other

materials acceptable).materials acceptable).

Question 6Question 6: general structural engineering question. Could involve : general structural engineering question. Could involve

any material or combinations of materials. Solutions usually any material or combinations of materials. Solutions usually

smaller in scale than those required for the the other questionssmaller in scale than those required for the the other questions..

Question 7Question 7: offshore engineering structure.: offshore engineering structure.

Question 8Question 8: : earthquake engineering earthquake engineering question (for engineer with question (for engineer with

specialist knowledge of seismic specialist knowledge of seismic designdesign

�� NOTE: Question 8 was introduced in 2005NOTE: Question 8 was introduced in 2005

The Exams – Some Facts (Continued)

At first glance there may not seem to be many differences betweeAt first glance there may not seem to be many differences between then the

AA--M and the CM examination questions!M and the CM examination questions!

The main differences are:The main differences are:

�� Two “distinct and viable” solutions are required for the CM examTwo “distinct and viable” solutions are required for the CM exam

(only 1 for A(only 1 for A--M).M).

�� The technical challenge in the CM questions is higher than that The technical challenge in the CM questions is higher than that in the in the

AA--M questions.M questions.

�� CM candidates are required to identify what they consider to be CM candidates are required to identify what they consider to be the the

critical details in section 2d, Acritical details in section 2d, A--M candidates are told what to sketch.M candidates are told what to sketch.

�� The expectation of the marking examiners in higher with the CM eThe expectation of the marking examiners in higher with the CM exam xam

compared with the Acompared with the A--M exam.M exam.

Question: In the CM exam how distinct is distinct?Question: In the CM exam how distinct is distinct?

Your 2 solutions must have differences in their structural actioYour 2 solutions must have differences in their structural action and load n and load

transfer characteristics (e.g. beam & column frames in steel andtransfer characteristics (e.g. beam & column frames in steel and concrete concrete

are not sufficiently different)are not sufficiently different)

�� Note: all questions involve foundation design based on the grounNote: all questions involve foundation design based on the ground d

conditions stated in each question.conditions stated in each question.

�� Some questions may require you to deal with a sulfate or chloridSome questions may require you to deal with a sulfate or chloride e

attack (or similar materials deterioration) problem. attack (or similar materials deterioration) problem.

�� Section 1b (the letter the the Client) of one of the CM questionSection 1b (the letter the the Client) of one of the CM questions will s will

require you to consider seismic or dynamic load effects. You musrequire you to consider seismic or dynamic load effects. You must be t be

able to demonstrate an awareness and general knowledge of how able to demonstrate an awareness and general knowledge of how

such activity affects the design and performance of structures.such activity affects the design and performance of structures.

�� You will be required to give your answer on an A4 size IStructE You will be required to give your answer on an A4 size IStructE

answer booklet.answer booklet.

�� On the A4 booklet you are required to quote any design codes or On the A4 booklet you are required to quote any design codes or

standards that you use when answering the question. standards that you use when answering the question. YOU CAN

USE ANY CODE OR STANDARD (but you must be consistent

throughout your answer). The examination will be taken by The examination will be taken by

candidates from a wide range of countries candidates from a wide range of countries –– many do not use British many do not use British

codes of practice.codes of practice.


�� All questions are now set exclusively in All questions are now set exclusively in S.I. unitsS.I. units (some past (some past

papers are in SI and approximately equivalent Imperial units).papers are in SI and approximately equivalent Imperial units).

�� You will be required to prepare general arrangements plans, You will be required to prepare general arrangements plans,

sections and elevations sections and elevations –– IStructE A3 size graph paper is provided IStructE A3 size graph paper is provided

for these drawingsfor these drawings. You may bring an A3 drawing board into the . You may bring an A3 drawing board into the

examination room for such drawings (it is not compulsory & the examination room for such drawings (it is not compulsory & the

exam centre will not provide any drawing boards).exam centre will not provide any drawing boards).

�� Anonymous marking is usedAnonymous marking is used –– your answer booklet and A3 your answer booklet and A3

drawing will only contain your candidate reference number. You drawing will only contain your candidate reference number. You

should never cite your name on any part of your submission.should never cite your name on any part of your submission.

�� No other papers or information can be submitted. You are not No other papers or information can be submitted. You are not

allowed to bring any preallowed to bring any pre--prepared items that can be glued (or prepared items that can be glued (or

attached) to your submission.attached) to your submission.

�� Strict examination conditions will apply. There must be no contaStrict examination conditions will apply. There must be no contact ct

of any form with any of the candidates of any form with any of the candidates or anyone outside the or anyone outside the

examination room. Toilet breaks will be permitted (by the examination room. Toilet breaks will be permitted (by the

invigilators).invigilators).


�� The examination period is split into The examination period is split into 2 no. 32 no. 3½½ hour sessionshour sessions::

9.30 9.30 –– 13.00 and 13.30 13.00 and 13.30 –– 17.0017.00

�� There is a There is a ½½ hour lunch break between 13.00 and 13.30 hours. You hour lunch break between 13.00 and 13.30 hours. You

will not be allowed to speak with anyone during this period. (Yowill not be allowed to speak with anyone during this period. (You u

will provide your own lunch). You will not be allowed to write iwill provide your own lunch). You will not be allowed to write in n

your answer booklet (or continue to work on the exam) during thiyour answer booklet (or continue to work on the exam) during this s

break.break.

�� You will be given You will be given 15 minutes reading time15 minutes reading time before the examination before the examination

period starts, i.e. period starts, i.e. from 9.15 to 9.30 amfrom 9.15 to 9.30 am. You will not be allowed to . You will not be allowed to

write on your answer booklet, question paper, A3 graph/drawing write on your answer booklet, question paper, A3 graph/drawing

paper, rough paper, etc. during this period. Similarly, you willpaper, rough paper, etc. during this period. Similarly, you will not not

be allowed to talk to anyone during this time.be allowed to talk to anyone during this time.

�� The Examination is OPEN BOOKThe Examination is OPEN BOOK. You can bring any design guide, . You can bring any design guide,

paper, calculations, book, code, standard, etc. into the paper, calculations, book, code, standard, etc. into the exam.exam.


�� You CAN use a portable computer or programmable calculator You CAN use a portable computer or programmable calculator

provided that it:provided that it:

Does not need an external supply

Is silent in use

Is sufficiently small to cause no disruption to other candidates or

the smooth conduct of the examination.

Is not used under any circumstances to make contact with

anyone else.

�� Printout from computers will not be acceptable and will not be Printout from computers will not be acceptable and will not be

marked. marked.

�� Manual calculations that demonstrate that the principal structurManual calculations that demonstrate that the principal structural al

elements are satisfactory are required elements are satisfactory are required –– NOT very detailed, lengthy NOT very detailed, lengthy

calculations that satisfy every clause of a complex code of calculations that satisfy every clause of a complex code of practice.practice.

�� Aim to show that there is sufficient resistance to bending, sheaAim to show that there is sufficient resistance to bending, shear, axial r, axial

loading, etc (as appropriate) and that serviceability limitationloading, etc (as appropriate) and that serviceability limitations are s are

satisfied (e.g. avoid excessive deflection).satisfied (e.g. avoid excessive deflection).


�� DO NOT FORGET to show that your proposed solutions are:DO NOT FORGET to show that your proposed solutions are:

stablestable against lateral loading (against lateral loading (lack of stability is a common failure lack of stability is a common failure

pointpoint))

robustrobust –– ensure that many alternative load paths existensure that many alternative load paths exist

buildablebuildable, , durabledurable, , serviceableserviceable

safe (during construction as well as in the completed state)safe (during construction as well as in the completed state)

economicaleconomical (in your (in your calcs calcs –– state if further economy can be state if further economy can be

obtained by refining the design obtained by refining the design –– don’t do repeated don’t do repeated calcscalcs to show to show

the next section size is acceptable the next section size is acceptable –– make good use of your time)make good use of your time)

�� Make use of your experience. If excessive deflection has never Make use of your experience. If excessive deflection has never

been a problem with the form of construction you are proposing, been a problem with the form of construction you are proposing, say say

so! Don’t waste time trying to prove it with lengthy so! Don’t waste time trying to prove it with lengthy calcscalcs!!

�� Present your solutions in a logical and systematic mannerPresent your solutions in a logical and systematic manner. Make use . Make use

of sketches to illustrate a point or points. These will help to of sketches to illustrate a point or points. These will help to convince convince

the marking examiners that you are competent (and worthy of the the marking examiners that you are competent (and worthy of the title title

“incorporated” or “chartered” structural engineer).“incorporated” or “chartered” structural engineer).


�� There are 2 parts to each question There are 2 parts to each question

�� Attempt both parts!Attempt both parts!

�� To pass the examination, you must pass each part!To pass the examination, you must pass each part!

�� In the CM exam, Section 1 is worth 50% and Section 2 is worth 50In the CM exam, Section 1 is worth 50% and Section 2 is worth 50%%

�� In the AIn the A--M examination, Section 1 is worth 35% and Section 2 is worth M examination, Section 1 is worth 35% and Section 2 is worth

65%65%

�� There is no need to attempt to carry out complex forms of analysThere is no need to attempt to carry out complex forms of analysis is ––

this is a concern as portable computers are allowed in the this is a concern as portable computers are allowed in the

examination.examination.

�� Use simple design methods that will give the correct order of Use simple design methods that will give the correct order of

magnitude of bending moments, shear forces, deflections, magnitude of bending moments, shear forces, deflections, etc.etc.


�� Ensure that you comply fully with the brief. Failure to do this Ensure that you comply fully with the brief. Failure to do this is an is an

extremely common and extremely common and AUTOMATICAUTOMATIC failure point.failure point.

e.g. if the question only permits 1 internal column between the e.g. if the question only permits 1 internal column between the

first and second floor, if you provide more than 1 column, you wfirst and second floor, if you provide more than 1 column, you will ill

AUTOMATICALLY fail even though the rest of your solution may AUTOMATICALLY fail even though the rest of your solution may

be near perfect! (If you feel that part of the question is ambigbe near perfect! (If you feel that part of the question is ambiguous uous ––

spend a few minutes explaining your interpretation at the beginnspend a few minutes explaining your interpretation at the beginning ing

of your answer).of your answer).

�� Another Another AUTOMATICAUTOMATIC failure point is lack of stability.failure point is lack of stability.

i.e. even if your proposed structure is perfectly satisfactory ii.e. even if your proposed structure is perfectly satisfactory in every n every

other regard, if it is unstable you other regard, if it is unstable you willwill fail!fail!

NOTESNOTES

Sometimes, some candidates who have failed, cannot believe the Sometimes, some candidates who have failed, cannot believe the

outcome because they think that they produced the perfect answeroutcome because they think that they produced the perfect answer! !

In such cases, it is likely that they will have succumbed to eitIn such cases, it is likely that they will have succumbed to either (or both) her (or both)

of these automatic failure points.of these automatic failure points.


General Advice

�� Prepare well Prepare well –– practise past questions.practise past questions.

�� Make effective use of the 7 hour exam period Make effective use of the 7 hour exam period –– use the time in use the time in

proportion to the marks available. Set yourself a timetable.proportion to the marks available. Set yourself a timetable.

�� Make sure that you attempt both parts of the exam!Make sure that you attempt both parts of the exam!

�� Adopt a logical and systematic approach when answering Adopt a logical and systematic approach when answering

questions.questions.

�� Make sure that you satisfy the Client’s brief and provide a stabMake sure that you satisfy the Client’s brief and provide a stable le

structure (for both solutions in the CM exam).structure (for both solutions in the CM exam).

�� Avoid spending too much time on the calculations Avoid spending too much time on the calculations –– develop develop

simple methods of design simple methods of design –– remember you are NOT expected to remember you are NOT expected to

submit fully detailed analysis and design submit fully detailed analysis and design calcs calcs complying with complying with

every clause in a code of practice!every clause in a code of practice!

�� The Branch runs an examination preparation course at Bradford The Branch runs an examination preparation course at Bradford

University (10 evenings commencing 7University (10 evenings commencing 7thth January 2008). See January 2008). See

www.brad.ac.uk/events/istructe/ for booking form.for booking form.

PART 3

QUESTIONS & ANSWERS

HQ Contacts for More Specific InformationHQ Contacts for More Specific Information

Allan BreretonAllan Brereton (Prof. Review Interviews, IPD, CPD)(Prof. Review Interviews, IPD, CPD)

Tel. 0207 201 9123Tel. 0207 201 9123

email: email: [email protected]@istructe.org

Lucy PollardLucy Pollard (Membership & Qualifications Officer)(Membership & Qualifications Officer)

Tel. 0207 201 9131Tel. 0207 201 9131


Peter JinksPeter Jinks (Examinations Manager)(Examinations Manager)

Tel. 0207 201 9114Tel. 0207 201 9114

email: peter.email: [email protected]@istructe.org

Darren ByrneDarren Byrne (Manager (Manager –– Membership & Qualifications)Membership & Qualifications)

Tel. 0207 201 9138Tel. 0207 201 9138


istructe professional review

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