Overview
The Royal College of Surgeons Basic Surgical Skills (BSS) Course is a foundational programme designed for trainees and aspiring surgeons to develop essential surgical skills in a controlled and supportive environment. Accredited by the Royal College of Surgeons, this two-day hands-on course provides a structured introduction to the core techniques, safety principles, and confidence-building exercises needed to excel in the early stages of a surgical career. Participants will gain the knowledge and skills to perform fundamental surgical tasks with proficiency, making it an ideal start to a robust surgical education.

Aims
The BSS Course aims to:

• Introduce essential surgical techniques and instrument handling skills.
• Build participants’ confidence in performing basic surgical tasks.
• Establish a strong foundation in surgical safety and tissue handling.
• Develop a pathway for continuous skill enhancement and professional growth.

Objectives
Upon completion of this course, participants will:

• Understand and apply the principles of aseptic technique.
• Develop proficiency in handling surgical instruments effectively.
• Learn core skills for suturing, knot-tying, tissue handling and anastomosis.
• Build confidence in making critical surgical decisions during basic procedures.
• Be well-prepared for more advanced surgical training.

Suitability
This course is ideally suited for:

• Resident doctors in their early years of training (FY1/FY2).
• Healthcare professionals pursuing a career in surgical disciplines.
• International medical graduates entering UK-based surgical training.

Prerequisites
Participants should have:

• A medical qualification or be a member of the extended surgical team.
• A basic understanding of surgical procedures and anatomy.
• An eagerness to pursue surgical training or a career in surgery.

Duration and Schedule

Duration: 2 days
Schedule: Each day includes a mix of short lectures, demonstrations, and hands-on practical sessions, all led by experienced surgical instructors. Day one focuses on basic skills, such as suturing, handling instruments, and tissue management, and ends with performing a small bowel anastomosis. Day two progresses to more complex techniques, including vascular anastomosis, tendon repair and laparoscopic skills. Full schedules are provided upon registration.

Assessment and Evaluation
The course includes continuous assessment through observation and feedback from instructors. At the end of the course, participants will undergo a practical assessment to evaluate their understanding and competence in the skills covered. Successful completion of the course is marked by a certificate awarded by the Royal College of Surgeons, providing a recognized accreditation in basic surgical skills.

Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Apply aseptic and safe surgical techniques independently.
• Demonstrate correct handling and application of basic surgical instruments.
• Perform essential suturing, knot-tying, and tissue handling techniques with confidence.
• Recognize and address potential complications in minor surgical procedures.
• Progress confidently into further surgical training with a solid foundation in practical skills.

Accrediting body
The Royal College of Surgeons of England

Costs
£695