Mr Kris Birney

I hold an MSc in Health and wellbeing and Dip HE in Operating Department Practice and have recently undertaken a Post Graduate Certificate in Academic Practice (PGCAP). I aim to undertake a PhD in the near future. Prior to joining CCCU, I worked clinically for 16 years as an Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) within the NHS. During this time I was employed in a variety of positions across the perioperative field. I have had many opportunities to undertake complex and unique work projects, including the reconfiguration of trauma and non-elective surgery from two aging NHS hospitals into a brand new purposely designed Trauma Unit. I am the Course Director for the BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice and hold the position of Lecturer in Health Science and Surgical Care, for which I am Module Lead for relevant modules across the degree. I am also the Module Lead for Postgraduate modules and teach regularly on these courses.

Prior to joining CCCU I have been involved in direct clinical teaching and have supported hundreds of students across a variety of healthcare professions in clinical placement alongside registered staff new to the operating theatre. I am very keen on the usage of available resources available here at CCCU and have contributed as part of a whole school team, the incorporation of our Anatomy Learning Centre (ALC) to enhance student learning of the human body with cadaveric material. I have recently looked at methods to support and enhance learning for part time Postgraduate students as part of CPD programs, to enable them to get the most out of their time at CCCU whilst undertaking full time employment with in the healthcare sector.

I am particularly interested in all aspects of patient safety, perioperative care and healthcare workforce development research, with a view to continue to build on research in this particular area

My most recent publication: Clinical Service Journal July 2023: Developing a Live Fire Exercise for theatre: Multiagency approach
https://content.yudu.com/web/1u0jl/0A1up6l/CSJ-OTS-2023/html/index.html?page=42&origin=reader

I have held a variety of positions on various regional and national working groups and committees. Notable past positions include:

• Chair of the Kent and Medway ICB ODP workforce
• HEE Southeast Workforce Clinical Lead for development of Apprenticeship (ODP)

I am an active member of the College of Operating Department Practice. Outside of professional working, I also volunteer as a Scout Leader.