Laying the foundation of surgical skills for trainees (residents).

The role of the surgical skills laboratory is becoming increasingly important as surgical service needs evolve and educational processes seek to become more robust. The skills laboratory offers an opportunity to better prepare residents for their clinical rotations and to accelerate their clinical effectiveness. The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons has developed and introduced a new standardised basic surgical skills curriculum that can be delivered sustainably in centres throughout Australia and New Zealand. A technical skill set required by all surgical disciplines was compiled, and each skill was deconstructed into cognitive steps. Models were devised to simulate an application of each skill, and standardized demonstrations were created and recorded to ensure uniform teaching. Extensive resource material supports the course programme, with information for tutors, technicians, course directors and participants. Currently, clinical rotations offer inconsistent opportunities for trainees to practise their skills after the course. Recruitment and retention of tutors remains a key challenge.