Dr Gray’s Hospital has opened a new Clinical Skills Centre (CSC), marking a significant stride in healthcare education

Published: 27/03/2024 10:42

Today, the centre was officially opened by Alison Evison, Chair of the Board of NHS Grampian, who described it as “a significant commitment to the future.”

The new centre, based within the revamped former Ward 10 space, is a dedicated environment for continuous learning and development for students and all members of staff.

Alison added, “This significant investment aligns with NHS Grampian's plan for the future and Dr Gray's Hospital's strategic vision, demonstrating our commitment to long-term investment in both staff and infrastructure. This collaboration between NHS Grampian and University of Aberdeen stands as a testament to the immense power of teamwork.”

Dr Angus Cooper, Director of Clinical Skills at Foresterhill, said, “This is a fantastic opportunity for all staff and students at Dr Gray’s.

The equipment we have in this centre is state-of-the-art and replicates what our students and staff will find in the clinical environment. We offer virtual ward environments and simulated clinical training, alongside resources such as a mannequin tailored for mastering practical procedures like catheterisation and intravenous techniques.”

The new centre also has live streaming technology, which significantly enhances access to training, providing flexibility and convenience.

Angus added, “The new CSC is ready for a journey of fostering growth and excellence, for both students and staff, ensuring their ongoing training and development.”

Special thanks go to Lori Snedden, practice education facilitator, and Dr David Williams, undergraduate educational lead, for going above and beyond in making this vision come to life.

Professor Duff Bruce, hospital clinical director, said, “This is really exciting; we have a diverse array of new equipment tailored for both students and staff, along with an outstanding support team ensuring the success of this initiative.

“Looking at the simulation mannequins in here, and the anatomy equipment, it’s just great. I think back to my clinical training, and the time when I was a student, and wish I’d had access to something like this. It would have made a big difference. All of our staff will get a chance to spend some time in the centre, helping to support learning and development and encouraging them to take their studies further.”

Duff said, “The work that the University of Aberdeen team is doing here is absolutely fantastic when we think about how we develop a workforce that is going to be deliverers of care going forward in Moray and beyond”.

We are delighted to partner with and work with them to look at how we can really think about the workforce and continue looking after our staff and students going forward.”