In June, representatives from across the medical spectrum came together in Edinburgh to celebrate the life and work of James Young Simpson

Seventh June this year was the 200th birthday of James Simpson, one of the most celebrated figures in the history of Edinburgh Medicine, best remembered for his introduction of chloroform for analgesia and anaesthesia in obstetrics and surgery.

One hundred years after his death, RCSEd prepares to celebrate the life and contribution of Lord Joseph Lister

It has been an exciting time developing plans and leading a team of enthusiastic College staff, Council members and contributors from specialty associations to create a series of events to mark the 100th Anniversary of the death of Lord Lister. He made a significant impact to the practice of surgery and the Lister Centenary Celebrations will mark the most important programme to be held by the College since its 500th Anniversary event in 2005. 

A training initiative in the Scottish Highlands is using a novel approach to deliver education in a time-constrained system

In May, the College joined forces with healthcare and educational organisations from across Scotland to deliver a training event with a twist – the first Highland Surgical Boot Camp.

In May, 19 junior doctors from hospitals across the West Bank travelled to Augusta Victoria Hospital in East Jerusalem for the RCSEd’s two-day Basic Surgical Skills course. Although it lasted just two days, the planning and organisation for the course was a major task that started with a family trip to the West Bank in 2009 by course organisers Robin and Magdalena Kincaid.

Close friend and colleague, Colonel Ian Greaves pays tribute to Professor Sir Keith Porter, Chair of the RCSEd’s Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care

Just in case anyone gets the wrong idea form the tone of this article, I am delighted to say at the beginning that Sir Keith is not only alive and well but playing a pivotal role in the management of military personnel injured in service in Afghanistan and enjoying immense personal happiness with Lady Porter and his new daughter.

The College’s online Masters in Surgical Sciences is enjoying record student numbers and has a growing international reach

The Edinburgh Surgical Sciences Qualification (ESSQ) programme delivered its first group of Masters Graduates in July 2010 and, since its launch three years earlier, has consistently demonstrated that the format meets with strong approval from enrolled surgical trainees.