Essential Surgical Skills

A hands-on, one-day course providing an introductory overview of fundamental surgical skills, meticulously crafted to impart safe operating techniques and underscore the significance of precautions for ensuring safe theatre practice.

19 February 2026
Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow
people participating in essential surgical skills course

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Overview

Introducing a new one-day, hands-on course dedicated to laying the groundwork for a robust surgical practice by focusing on essential skills for surgeons.

Our accelerated one-day course offered an introduction to core surgical skills while minimizing time away from the workplace. Designed to cover components assessed in the MRCS OSCE exam, this course follows a blended learning approach. Delegates will receive online learning materials in advance, followed by a one-day procedural skills course. 

To find out more about the course, please view the below video from course lead Dr Dermot Murphy

 

Picture of course

Learning outcomes

Ideal for trainees aspiring toward a surgical career and preparing for basic surgical examinations, including junior trainees aiming to acquire fundamental surgical skills before embarking on specialty surgical training. These skills are crucially tested in the MRCS Part B OSCE Examination, where candidates are evaluated on their clinical and procedural aptitude. The course aims to instill safe operating techniques and underscores the importance of precautions for ensuring safe theatre practice. 

  • Knot tying
  • Tissue handling
  • Laparoscopic skills

Who is this course for? 

The Essential Surgical Skills course is aimed at:

  • FYs Trainees
  • Surgical First Assistant Nurses
  • Final Year Medical Students
  • Surgeons outside the UK

Attending the course

This event is an in-person course. That means you get the chance to join us in the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow.

 At the College, you’ll benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, as well as lunch prepared by our award-winning chefs.

The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Glasgow is conveniently located in Glasgow City Centre, within easy reach of major train stations, motorways and airports. Hotel and parking discounts can be accessed after booking.    

Find out more about the best way to get to us here.

What happens on the day?

Click below to view the programme

Here's what our previous delegates said

"Enjoyed the format of videos/discussions and then practical."

"The learning objectives were met to a great extent, a very engaging learning experience."

"Loved the clinical skills element."

If you have any questions, feel free to contact the coordinator. Their details can be found below.

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