Sheffield Children’s delivers world-leading event in paediatric orthopaedics

A pioneering masterclass event from the world-leading Sheffield Children’s orthopaedics team brought over 100 visitors to Sheffield to advance children’s health through leadership in education, clinical excellence, and international collaboration.

Founded by Sheffield Children’s globally renowned consultant James Fernandes, this unique four-day event welcomed guests from as far as New Zealand, Hong Kong ,India, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Botswana, Tanzania, Nigeria, Spain, Republic of Ireland, Canada, and the USA.

Together they focused on developing the next generation of world-class paediatric orthopaedic professionals – from right here in Sheffield.

Working at the cutting-edge of surgical advancements, the team is nationally and internationally renowned for its outstanding expertise and care, with 75% of orthopaedic patients travelling specially to Sheffield Children’s from far beyond South Yorkshire.

The team’s exceptional surgical techniques and vast experience means they often treat children with highly complex conditions, with results that dramatically improve their lives and progress advances in care.

It’s this reputation – and a commitment to providing hands on opportunities for development – which attracts trainees from across the UK and internationally to apply for the highly sought after placement opportunities at Sheffield Children’s.

Across four days nine international speakers joined leading clinical experts from Sheffield Children’s orthopaedic team and national faculty. Together they shared expert knowledge, led practical workshops, and showcased innovative techniques and the latest advanced industry technologies.

James Fernandes said: “This one-of-a-kind event was inspired by an ambition to share the latest paediatric orthopaedic techniques and create a world-class opportunity for development and connection that will continue long into the future. It would not be possible without the dedication of the team here in Sheffield, and the international community who all share the same ambition – providing world-class care for as many children as possible.

“We’re incredibly proud to have welcomed professionals from lower middle-income countries to the event where they are supported to deliver the skills we showcase with the resources available to them when they return to their organisations.”

Thank you to everyone involved in developing and delivering the Sheffield Masterclass Advanced Paediatric Orthopaedic Techniques 2025 event, and to those who travelled to Sheffield to take part.

The event will be followed by the Sheffield Paediatric Orthopaedic and Trauma Skills Course in 2026, and more exciting opportunities in 2027.