Holistic Assessments of Learning Outcomes (HALOs) are summative assessments used in the 2021 Curriculum to show that an anaesthetist in training has achieved the required learning outcome for a domain of learning and has illustrated this by uploading appropriate evidence to the Lifelong Learning platform (LLp).

Each domain of learning has an overarching learning outcome for each stage.  Within each stage the learning outcome is underpinned by stage-specific key capabilities, which guide the individual towards achieving the learning outcome.

The main focus of each HALO is assessment of achievement of the learning outcome(s), for which the key capabilities provide the supporting evidence.

To complete a HALO, the anaesthetist in training will need to demonstrate the following:

• evidence linked to each key capability or cluster of key capabilities within that domain of learning
• appropriate clinical experience, evidenced by logbook data
• a completed Multiple Trainer Report for the respective stage of training, documenting appropriate progress & performance.

Evidence that may be used to demonstrate attainment of the key capabilities includes:

• Supervised Learning Events (SLEs) as illustrated by the use of ACEX, CBD, ALMAT, DOPS or A-QIPAT. No fixed number is required, but progress in terms of supervision levels should be demonstrated.  Anaesthetists in training should show engagement with learning by regular completion of SLEs as ‘low stakes’ assessments that guide learning and provide feedback.
• Personal Activities such as attendance at courses, teaching sessions or simulation.
• Personal Reflection.

When evidence is uploaded to the LLp, it should be linked to the appropriate key capability or cluster of key capabilities by the anaesthetist in training. A single piece of evidence can be linked to more than one cluster of capabilities and more than one domain of learning.

Once some evidence has been linked to capabilities in a HALO the anaesthetist in training should click on the ‘Create HALO’ tab. This will turn the HALO blue and allows the trainer to see what evidence has been linked to the key capability clusters and the supervision levels that have been recorded for individual SLEs. SLEs will appear in chronological order under the linked key capability or cluster of capabilities, which allows the progression with supervision to be clearly illustrated.  To view progress with any aspect of the HALO the trainer should click on ‘Review HALO’. It is important to note that the trainer must not click on ‘Create HALO’ as this then locks the HALO for the trainee.

Successful completion of all 14 HALOs is required to complete each stage of training. Most HALOs will be approved towards the end of a stage of training. Some HALOs may be approved earlier in the stage, for example ICM, after completion of the relevant clinical attachments.