This unit is designed to provide learners with detailed knowledge and skills for performing practical microbiological procedures. This unit is suitable for learners who are performing microbiological procedures in an educational context. 

Course Dates: 11th - 13th November 2025
Closing Date:  26th September 2025

For additional 3 Day and 1 Day refresher courses run by SSERC Accredited Partners, click HERE

Course Leader

Johnathan Doran

T: 01383 626070 ext 222
johnathan.doran@sserc.scot

Accommodation

Overnight accommodation between day 1 , 2 and 3 can be provided on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis at a local hotel. Please refer to the cost tab for the residential course fees.

Location

The course will be held at SSERC in Dunfermline. Our SSERC buildings are at 2 Pitreavie Court, Dunfermline, KY11 8UU. SSERC is a short (5-10 minutes) walk from Rosyth railway station and close to the end of the A823(M) spur off Junction 2 of the M90 motorway. Car journey times (approximately): Edinburgh – 30 min; Glasgow – 60 min; Aberdeen – 2.5 hours; Inverness – 3 hours.

Cost

Course fee payable to SSERC (Residential, with accommodation) – £615
Course fee payable to SSERC (Non-Residential, no accommodation) – £375

 

Outcomes

Outcome 1

You will be introduced to microbiological techniques.  The lectures/tutorials for this outcome will focus on:

  • Preparation for microbiological work;
  • Aseptic techniques;
  • Preparation and sterilisation of media;
  • Use of autoclave for sterilisation;
  • Sub-culturing, slide preparation and staining;
  • Treatment of spillages and disposal;
  • Identifying micro-organisms using smears and Gram’s stain.

Outcome 2

In this outcome you will be introduced to the methods for disinfection and sterilisation of microbes.  You will also learn how to:

  • Prepare media;
  • Perform sub-culturing techniques and keep records;
  • Identify microbial samples using smear techniques and the Gram’s stain test; use chemical disinfectants;
  • Autoclave;
  • Treat spillages and dispose of waste.

Programme

Day 1

Introduction

Risks and the need for good working practices

Preparation for microbiological work

Aseptic Techniques

Preparation and sterilisation of media

Use of Autoclave

Sub Culturing

Day 2

Spills

Sterilisation and disinfection

Slide preparation and staining

Treatment of spillages and disposal

Day 3

Media Prep assessed practical

Subculturing assessed practical

Smear and prep gram’s stain assessed practical

Written Assessment

Close and Plenary