Advancing Robotic Surgical Training in the NHS

Robotic-Assisted Surgery (RAS) is becoming an integral part of modern surgical practice. National strategy, including the NHS 10-Year Health Plan and National Cancer Plan, outlines a clear commitment to expanding access to robotic surgery across a wider range of procedures over the coming decade.

To support this ambition, the Shelford Group, in partnership with Newcastle Surgical Training Centre, developed the Shelford START Programme – a structured, multi-year training pathway designed to prepare surgical trainees for safe and effective robotic practice.

Manchester Surgical Skills and Simulation Centre (MSSSC) is proud to host the programme in the North West.

What is the START Programme?

The START Programme enables surgical trainees to develop robotic skills at an earlier stage in their careers through structured, progressive training across multiple robotic platforms, including:

• Intuitive – da Vinci
• CMR Surgical – Versius
• Medtronic – Hugo™ RAS

The programme reflects the evolving and technically complex nature of robotic surgery and supports trainees in building confidence, capability, and system familiarity across platforms.

Programme Structure

START is delivered over three to four years, across four progressive phases, ensuring sustained development rather than one-off exposure.

Training includes:

• Simulation-based learning
• Structured system familiarisation
• Skills development across multiple platforms
• Ongoing progress monitoring through a dedicated Skills Tracker

This phased approach ensures trainees gain the competencies required for safe integration of robotic surgery into clinical practice.

Learn More

For further details, please read the official START Programme brochure or watch the programme overview video.

For local queries regarding the START Programme in the North West, please contact:
msssc@mft.nhs.uk