Great Western Hospital staff use new surgical robot to inspire local students

Students at Malmesbury School have been given an opportunity to learn about careers in robotic surgery, nursing and engineering following a visit from staff at the Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. 

In 2023, the Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust in Swindon, Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust and the Salisbury NHS Foundation Trust each made a major investment by purchasing surgical robots. This is part of the commitment that has been made across the local area to invest in the latest technology.

The Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust purchased a Versius machine from CMR Surgical, meaning surgeons can operate with higher levels of precision, and perform complex procedures with minimal access, while ensuring the highest levels of patient safety. 

Today, (Friday 26 January), Great Western Hospital staff took a robot loaned by CMR Surgical to Malmesbury School as part of an inspirational careers day for 90 students ranging from 11 to 18 years old.

Students were given the opportunity to hear from robotic surgeons, nurses and allied health professionals as well as getting hands on experiences with the surgical robot, virtual reality technology and other surgical equipment.

As well as demonstrating a range of careers in healthcare, the day demonstrated to students the roles other careers can have in the NHS, such as engineering.

Mr Anwar Owais, Consultant General and Colorectal Surgeon for the Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, helped organise the day and said:

“We are delighted to have had the opportunity to give these young people hands-on experience with a surgical robot. These robots have already made a difference to patients across our region and are now helping to inspire local students to consider a career in healthcare or associated field, such as engineering.”

Brett Jouny, Headteacher at Malmesbury School, said:

“This was a fantastic opportunity for our students to learn about robotic surgery and the various careers available in local healthcare. Thank you to the team at the Great Western Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and CMR Surgical for helping to organise this event, which is sure to have been inspirational to many of our students.”

Already used in colorectal, gynaecology and urology surgery, the Great Western Hospital’s surgical robot will be expanded for further use in the coming years. The work is part of a local commitment to ensuring that the quality-of-care patients receive is of the highest standard, carried out using the most modern technology.