At the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh (RCSEd), we’re proud to launch the Guild of Examiners an exciting new initiative designed to bring examiners and assessment assessors together in a supportive, professional, and connected community.
The Guild is here to strengthen professional development, celebrate contributions, and ensure that examination standards remain world-class. Most importantly, it’s about creating a sense of belonging for examiners across the globe.
On the launch of the RCSEd Guild of Examiners, Mr John Hines, Dean for Examinations stated:
Thursday marked a historic moment as the College Guild of Examiners held its very first annual meeting at the Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh. Clinical examiners, lay examiners, assessors, and professional staff from across all examinations and faculties came together to celebrate and shape the future of assessment at the College. The meeting was opened by College President Professor Rowan Parks, with inspiring presentations delivered by John Hines, Dean of Examinations; Tim Graham, Vice President; Grant McIntyre, Dental Dean; and Andrew Smith, Chair Elect of the Faculty of Pre-Hospital Care.
Mr John Hines
Dynamic workshops, led by Iain Foster-Smith, Director for Examinations, Education and Faculties, explored professional practice and the evolving role of AI in examinations, supported by the College’s professional examinations team. The day concluded with an energising discussion on future activities of the Guild, followed by the closing address from Vice President Tim Graham and, fittingly, the very first Guild of Examiners College Dinner. A milestone day for the Guild, and a glimpse into an exciting future for examinations at the College.
Mr John Hines
Why a “Guild”?
The word Guild has a special place in our history. Back in 1505, the Edinburgh Guild of Barbers and Surgeons was formally incorporated as a Craft of the Burgh. A Seal of Cause a kind of charter of privileges was granted to them by the Town Council of Edinburgh on 1 July.
By reviving the term today, we’re recognising our heritage while building something new: a community that values excellence, professionalism, and collaboration.
What’s the Purpose of the Guild?
The Guild has been created with five clear aims:
• Professional development – offering training, guidance, and links to career progression.
• Sustainability & retention – developing strategies to attract and retain examiners for the long term.
• Community engagement – creating a network where knowledge and best practice can be shared.
• Recognition – celebrating achievements through awards and enhanced professional status.
• Standardisation – ensuring examinations are fair, consistent, and of the highest quality.
How Will the Guild Stay Sustainable?
Sustainability and growth are at the heart of the Guild. We’ll achieve this by:
• Regularly reviewing activities to ensure fairness and transparency.
• Partnering with other Colleges and institutions to share expertise.
• Expanding equality, diversity, and inclusion within examining.
• Supporting RCSEd’s wider volunteer strategy to keep the community strong.
The Guild of Examiners is more than just a framework, it’s a community, a recognition of excellence, and a commitment to the future of surgical education.
We look forward to welcoming examiners from across the world to join us in shaping the next chapter of RCSEd’s proud history.