School workshop for students with SEND

The Hunterian Museum houses a remarkable collection of surgical history, including over 2,000 anatomical preparations from John Hunter’s original collection. Alongside these are surgical instruments, medical equipment, models, paintings, and archival materials that trace the development of surgery from ancient times to modern robot-assisted procedures. The museum also features England’s largest public display of human anatomy.

This loan box contains a selection of surgical instruments dating from the 19th to the 21st century. All items included are part of the museum’s handling collection and similar objects are on display at the Hunterian Museum.

This box is designed to be used in the classroom for schools with SEND pupils, aged 14+. 

The box can be borrowed for up to 6 weeks.

The box includes selected items that have links to the themes of surgery, health and medicine through time. The box contains notes for teachers that explain the use of each item alongside suggested classroom activities. The box can be tailored to the need of your students by removing some items before delivery.

Suggested Handling Session: There are different ways to interact with the objects. It is up to you how you use these objects to inspire your students but here are some suggestions you may wish to consider.

To begin with, you may wish to divide your students into small groups and provide each group with an object to explore. You can use the discovery sheet to support their observation and guide their thinking as they examine the object more closely.

Handling Guidelines

The objects in this box are designed to support interactive, hands-on learning. To ensure they remain in good condition for future users, please follow the handling guidelines below.

• Always handle objects with clean, dry hands
• Do not eat or drink while using the objects
• Handle all items gently and with care
• Keep objects away from the edge of tables
• Always return items to the box after use

Before the Session

• Check all items against the object list
• Ensure a clean and clear workspace is prepared
• Brief students on how to handle objects respectfully

During the Session

Encourage students to:

• Hold objects carefully with both hands
• Observe before touching where possible
• Supervise handling at all times
• Limit the number of students handling objects at once

After the Session

• Check all items are present using the object list
• Ensure objects are clean and dry before returning them
• Pack items back in their designated compartments

Damage or Loss

If any item is damaged or missing, please inform us as soon as possible: Email: [email protected] 

We offer a loan box virtual session. This can be as an introduction to the objects, while handling the objects or after the classroom object handling session. We also encourage all schools to follow up with a visit to the Museum. 

You will be able to wonder the Museum and find the objects or similar objects on display.