The Royal College of Surgeons Edinburgh

In 1505, the incorporation of the Barber-Surgeons of Edinburgh came into being with the granting of its Seal of Cause by the Town Council of Edinburgh. Since then, the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh has been dedicated to the maintenance and promotion of the highest standards of surgical practice, through its keen interest in education, training and rigorous examination and through its liaison with external medical bodies. Whilst being keenly aware of its antiquity (the College celebrated its quincentenary in 2005), the College prides itself also on its innovation and adaptability.

In order to enter into training grades in surgery, young doctors need an MRCS - Membership of the Royal College of Surgeons - which is an intercollegiate qualification involving the Colleges in London, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

This is exam week - and I have been busy all day as a Lay Examiner in Communication Skills. 40 young doctors have nine minutes each to show that they can communicate with an actor/simulated patient. By the time you have heard the same scenario for the fortieth time......