Basic Robotic Surgery Skills
RoboPass®
Competency Assessment Programme
An official ALRSGBI initiative to build confidence and validation of basic robotic surgical skills, combining guided hands-on practice with structured competency assessment and certification.
Next Programme
Programme date
Programme
RoboPass® Competency Assessment
The Griffin Institute, Harrow · Limited to 6 candidates
Objectives
Programme objectives and core competencies
RoboPass® provides a structured and objective framework for assessing robotic surgical skills, establishing national standards for competency in minimally invasive and robotic surgery.
A standardised framework
Consistent and objective evaluation of fundamental robotic surgical skills, in line with current national training standards.
Guided hands-on session
Refresh and apply core robotic skills through a low-pressure practice session with expert faculty before formal assessment.
Recognised proficiency
Demonstrate competency using a structured framework and earn nationally recognised certification of robotic skills.
Learning Outcomes
What you'll gain, and what you'll be assessed on
By the end of the programme
You will:
- Refresh and apply core robotic skills through guided hands-on practice
- Receive expert feedback to build confidence before assessment
- Demonstrate competency using a structured, standardised framework
- Achieve recognised certification of robotic skills
- Develop greater confidence in future robotic performance
Core Skills Assessed
Demonstrate competency in:
- Safe system setup and instrument handling
- Camera control and spatial orientation
- Precision movement and coordination
- Efficient task execution using robotic controls
- Adherence to safety principles and standard operating protocols
Programme Structure
Assessment-Based Programme
This programme aims to ensure consistency and objectivity in evaluating fundamental robotic surgical skills in line with current training standards.
RoboPass® is a focused robotic surgery skills programme combining a guided hands-on practice session with a structured competency assessment and certification.
Assessment notes –
- Candidates will be formally assessed affter a practice session
- Candidates must pass both technical and non-technical sessions.
- If unsuccessful in any part, a second attempt may be offered on the same day where feasible.
- Remedial courses can be organised if needed.
- Evaluation of all tasks is conducted on the Da Vinci Xi system.
Eligibility
Who can apply
Please note: you need experience in da Vinci Xi as this is a 1-day event with a summative assessment to achieve accreditation. Places limited to 6 candidates.
Training level
Resident (ST3–ST8) or Fellow in General Surgery, Urology, or Gynaecology, or other relevant specialties.
VR robotic simulation evidence
≥90% in exercises evaluating camera orientation, manual dexterity / hand-eye coordination, clutch control, advanced energy use, and 4th arm cutting.
The Fundamental Robotic Skills (FRS) modules in SimNow Xi cover these competencies. Candidates can submit evidence for any VR sim exercises covering them.Operative experience
≥10 assistant robotic cases logged in training portfolio (must be able to share evidence).
Recommended preparation
Completion of an introductory robotic surgery course is desirable. Applicants should state sub-specialty and current level of training on application.
Early applications with strong evidence of commitment to robotic surgery will be an advantage. Applications from ALRSGBI Academy members will be given preference.How to Apply
Programme application details.
Send your form to Jennifer Treglohan.
Email completed application forms to jtreglohan@alrsgbi.org alongside evidence of VR simulation results and your case log.
Please only make payment when your application has been approved.
Non-refundable unless place re-allocated. The full timed programme is shared with participants three weeks before the assessment.
Venue & Logistics
The Griffin Institute, Harrow.
Address
The Griffin Institute
Northwick Park & St Mark's Hospital
Y Block, Watford Road
Harrow, Middlesex HA1 3UJ
Access via St Mark's Hospital main entrance, same floor as Endoscopy.
On-the-day Contact
Nearest Transport
Underground
- Northwick Park (Metropolitan Line)
National Rail
- Kenton (London Euston – Watford Junction Line)
Bus Routes
- 186 · 223 · H9 · H10 · H14 · H18 · H19 · N18
Faculty
ALRSGBI Programme Faculty.
| Faculty Member | Role | Hospital | Specialty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Programme Director Professor Nader Francis | Consultant Surgeon | Yeovil District Hospital | Lower GI |
| Programme Co-Director Miss Asma Afzal | Trainee Surgeon | Colchester General Hospital | Lower GI |
| Assessor Professor Chelliah Selvasekar | Consultant Surgeon | The Christie, Manchester | Lower GI |
| Academy Chair Mr Matt Boal | Trainee Surgeon | Plymouth University Hospital | ST8 UGI |
| Academy Robotic Lead Mr Guglielmo Piozzi | Research Fellow | Portsmouth Hospitals | Lower GI |
Gallery
Hands-on assessment in progress.
Technical and non-technical robotic skills assessment at The Griffin Institute.
FAQs
Frequently asked questions.
This programme aims to ensure consistency and objectivity in evaluating fundamental robotic surgical skills in line with current training standards.
RoboPass® is a focused robotic surgery skills programme combining a guided hands-on practice session with a structured competency assessment and certification.
?Do I need prior robotic assessment experience?
No. The guided practice session prepares participants before formal evaluation.
?Is this a full training course?
RoboPass® is a focused assessment programme with preparatory practice. It is designed as an efficient certification pathway rather than an extended training course.
?What if I feel unprepared?
Faculty provide feedback during the practice session to support readiness before assessment.
Join us - limited seats are available.
For more information or to apply for the next RoboPass® session, contact us. Early applications are strongly encouraged.