A SPACE Architects project, the centre also aims to provide vital training for other students within the Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing. The Academy will benefit many of the region’s current surgeons and surgical trainees, providing vital facilities.
Students’ learning will be enriched by the new academy, allowing them to appreciate the complex and intricate workings of the human body, as well as the normal anatomical variability which occurs between individuals.
The facility will permit learners to improve their depth perception, spatial orientation and visualization of body structures below the skin
The scheme includes specialised Wet and Dry Anatomy teaching and learning rooms, a series of dedicated prosection, embalming and body store facilities with supporting accommodation for teaching/technical staff and students.
Debs Patten, Professor of Anatomy at the University said:“We deliver anatomy teaching to a range of healthcare education programmes across the Faculty of Health Sciences and Wellbeing using a blended approach of virtual dissection, digital and clinical imaging, portable ultrasound and living anatomy as well as using anatomical models.
“These learning resources are greatly appreciated by our students and staff, but undoubtedly, the inclusion of cadaveric anatomy will be of huge benefit to our institution and indeed the region.”
The new building can accommodate up to 85-90 students across 3 dedicated teaching zones, functioning as either separate learning environments or as a series of interconnected spaces. The 800m² floor area will enhance the programme of specialised anatomy teaching to medical students and health professionals, further enhancing the facilities at the School of Medicine.
Professor Patten added:“A hands on experience uniquely provides authentic tactile information on tissue texture which, when coupled with 3D visualization of anatomic structures, offers learners highly memorable learning experiences.”
As well as the University’s medical students the centre will also be used by those on other programmes including paramedicine, physiotherapy, nursing and others.
Andrew Bumfrey, Associate Director of Space Architects, said:“It has been fantastic to closely collaborate with the School of Medicine to create this unique brief, generate a bespoke design response and achieve full planning approval.
“The project provides a great future for the teaching of anatomy and further enhances the school’s facilities. The new building will support a range of dedicated, state-of-the-art learning environments for staff and students, influencing the education of future generations of doctors, nurses and other key healthcare workers.”
