The aim of the test is to ensure that those who wish to undertake the BPTC have the required skills, helping to make sure that those without the required skills do not needlessly spend up to £15,750 on the course. The first pilot of the test took place in 2009-10 with about 300 student volunteers. A second pilot is currently underway and over 1,600 students have taken part. Due to the likely extension of the approval process, we have amended the timetable for its introduction. Information regarding the changes can be found at: www.barstandardsboard.org.uk/news/.