From the Classroom to Operating Room: Buckswood Students Experience Surgical Skills Firsthand

At Buckswood, we are always looking for ways to bridge the gap between classroom learning and real-world applications. Recently, I had the privilege of taking a group of our A-Level and IB Biology students to the Hunterian Museum in London for their Surgical Skills Taster Workshop—an experience that truly brought their studies to life.

The workshop provided students with a rare, hands-on opportunity to learn essential surgical techniques, including suturing, knot-tying, and proper gloving and gowning procedures—all under the guidance of experienced medical professionals. It was incredible to see the level of focus and enthusiasm from our students as they practiced these skills, many for the first time. For those considering careers in medicine, this was an invaluable insight into the precision and discipline required in surgery.

Beyond the practical elements, we also spent time exploring the Hunterian Museum’s fascinating collection, tracing the history of surgery through centuries of medical innovation. From early surgical tools to ground breaking anatomical discoveries, the museum provided a powerful context for how far medical science has come. It was particularly rewarding to see students making connections between what they had learned in class and the exhibits in front of them.

Experiences like this are what make teaching at Buckswood so rewarding. Seeing students engaged, asking insightful questions, and even rethinking their future career paths reminds me why these trips are such an essential part of our science programme. Whether a student goes on to pursue medicine or simply develops a deeper appreciation for the subject, opportunities like this leave a lasting impact.

– Emma Bachellier