Visit to Royal College of Surgeons 2023

On November 26th fifteen Needlemakers accompanied by The Master enjoyed a most interesting visit to The Royal College which was founded in 1800 . In recent years it has been extensively rebuilt following war time bomb damage. It now provides education, research , assessment , examinations and development to surgeons at all stages of their careers. It offers the U K ‘s most advanced surgical teaching techniques in the world including the latest robotic assisted operations. We were most fortunate to observe practical training first hand for one of its many courses. Many of us were surprised to hear how much each individual has to pay for courses to advance their surgical training. 

When the college was founded the government bought the 14,000 animal and human specimens in the museum of the late surgeon and anatomist John Hunter. The Royal College was given custody of the collection on the understanding that it was available to medics. Unfortunately much of this collection was destroyed during the war but 2,000 fascinating specimens and historical surgical instruments are now beautifully displayed in the now famous Hunterian Museum which is available and free to all members of the public. Book on line and a donation is appreciated . I could recommend anyone to visit the museum at Lincolns Inn Fields and be fascinated by the exhibits. 

The Master said the tour of the College was quite amazing, most interesting, fascinating and enjoyable. And he gave thanks to the hosts.

Liveryman Ginny Stobart