Dean's Update | May 2020
Isn’t it wonderful to have things to look forward to and also to appreciate how much we normally take for granted? Like me, I am sure you are looking forward to a little time off work, but perhaps even more, the time when we will be able to be together again on campus.
I miss the buzz of Cedar House and all the many fun events you create. The School is working hard with the University on a plan for our return. A bit at a time, we will get there. Not straight back to the way it all was, but a steady restoration of the patient-facing skills that define you as a future doctor, and the time together that matters.
The staff and I have found it a real privilege to be part of your community over this semester. During normal times we may not always feel that you notice the effort it takes to achieve something good. But over recent times we have been so uplifted by your many messages of thanks for teaching delivered and of encouragement.
It means a great deal and we thank you also, for working with us to make the most of the learning opportunities available, ensuring you are ready to continue your journey to be a doctor.
I’m also greatly looking forward to the celebration of the culmination of all that training when a number of Year 5 graduate on the 8th June and others follow in July.
The online ceremony will be hugely significant, academically and professionally, especially at a time when your contribution to the NHS is so important, and particularly poignant this year for many of the clinical colleagues who have supported you recently.
While some have not been able to resist the costume already (!), the real academic celebration, the sea of graduating doctors with heads held high in mortar boards and wearing well deserved robes, surrounded by those we care for, and that measured solemn walk across the stage, are what we still very much look forward to.
Here’s to next spring! For now, to quote one of your colleagues, ‘the journey begins’. May it be reflective of your effort, your compassion and your love of Liverpool!
Professor Hazel Scott MBChB MD FRCP PFHEA
Dean of the School of Medicine