Senior pupils at one of Aberdeen’s leading independent schools will get a first hand insight into a crucial ‘behind the scenes’ medical profession.

Fifth and sixth year science students at St Margaret’s School for Girls will be taking part in an interactive presentation on the work of a pathologist.

The session will be led by Dr Lesley Carson, a consultant at Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, who specialises in histopathology and is a fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists.

The event is part of the first ever National Pathology Week – 3-9 November – an initiative of the Royal College of Pathologists to raise the profile of this part of the medical profession, whose work is essential in understanding disease and directing care for patients.

“There is a perception, based on a number of high profile TV programmes, that pathologists spend their time dealing with death and helping the police to solve crimes,” Dr Carson said.

“Whilst a few pathologists do this type of work, in fact, the vast majority are involved in the care of living patients, and around 70% of medical diagnoses rely on the skill of a pathologist.

“National Pathology Week is a way to increase awareness and understanding about the science of pathology and the work that we do, and I am really pleased to be involved with it through this event at St Margaret’s.

In the session, girls will use microscopes and learn about how pathologists examine tissue sample and identify disease, considering conditions such as appendicitis and also cancer.

Abigail Miller, who is head of Biology at St Margaret’s, said this is a great opportunity for the girls to find out first hand about working in such an important medical profession.

“I am delighted that Dr Carson has agreed to come in and run this session with our pupils as it will give them a fascinating in sight into the work of a pathologist.

A significant number of our girls are interested in studying medicine so they will be able to benefit from Dr Carson’s expertise. The event highlights the strong focus on science that we have at St Margaret’s.”