Post Mortem Reconstruction Course
Delivered by Martin Jeffrey MBIE Dip Fd
The course will be available to those embalmers who desire to increase their skill levels in the area of post mortem reconstruction.
The course provides a hands-on based approach to cranial/facial reconstruction, soft tissue injury to the face and airbrush cosmetics. A series of structured exercises has been devised to teach those attending how to complete the reconstruction of a badly traumatised head. Turning a closed coffin into an open coffin for viewing and giving the family a final opportunity to say goodbye. The course is designed to educate professionals in specialist techniques of Facial Restoration; the process of resuming a person’s facial features and presentation following an accident or other tragic and traumatic circumstance.
Adding reconstructive surgery techniques to your personal skill provides a much-needed and invaluable service to families who entrust their loved ones into our care, whilst showing them the commitment and dedication you have to being a professional embalmer.
Level 1: Course information
Course dates
5 day course
Course: Monday 7th June 2027 – Friday 11th June 2027
If booking University accommodation, you will need to arrive on Sunday.
Accommodation
University ensuite accommodation is available to book as included within the ticket price.
Check in is Sunday 6th June 2027
Check out: Friday 11th June 2027.
Delegates will be staying in Agnes Blackadder Hall only a few minutes walk away from the School of Medicine.
The cost is £100 per night for single occupancy, inclusive of breakfast.
Course duration
5 full days, Monday – Friday.
Entry requirements
The course is for professional embalmers, NHS APTs, student embalmers and associated professionals.
- Participants must be a professional in an industry relevant to the course material
- Participants will adhere to checks for suitability (ie. British Institute of Embalmers Membership).
- References may be required, where standard suitability checks are not valid, this is particularly relevant to delegates attending from overseas.
Course cost
Level 1: £2472
University ensuite accommodation is available to purchase as an extra for £500 for 5 nights (Sunday – Thurs), inclusive of breakfast.
Course type
Certificate of Completion (non-credit bearing).
Teaching format
A mix of in-person, practical classes and sit-down tutorials.
The courses is a mentally and physically demanding course and there are intentional breaks and sit down tutorials throughout the week to support our delegates learning and experience.
Learning outcomes
- Learn how to assess the damage after a sudden traumatic death and plan what specialised techniques should be used.
- Learn how to carry out a methodical /structured reconstruction of the skull and facial skull.
- Assess the extent of the soft tissue injuries and decide what techniques to apply to correct any damage
- Usage of airbrush cosmetics
Benefits
- Provide an invaluable service to the families and communities we serve.
- Turn a closed coffin into an open coffin for viewing.
- Help families with closure.
- Invest in your personal career.
Level 2: Course information
Course dates
5 day course
Course: Monday 7th June 2027 – Friday 11th June 2027
If booking University accommodation, you will need to arrive on Sunday.
Course duration
5 full days
Accommodation
University ensuite accommodation is available to book as included within the ticket price.
Check in is Sunday 6th June 2027
Check out: Friday 11th June 2027.
Delegates will be staying in Agnes Blackadder Hall only a few minutes walk away from the School of Medicine.
The cost is £100 per night for single occupancy, inclusive of breakfast.
Entry requirements
You must have completed Level 1 at St Andrews.
Course cost
Level 2: £2472
University ensuite accommodation is available to purchase as an extra for £500 for 5 nights (Sunday – Thurs), inclusive of breakfast.
Course type
Certificate of Completion (non-credit bearing).
Teaching format
A mix of in-person, practical classes and sit-down tutorials.
Learning outcomes
By the end of this intensive, hands-on course, participants will be able to:
- Assess and plan complex cranial and facial reconstructions, demonstrating a deep understanding of anatomical structures and the requirements for advanced restorative work.
- Reconstruct severe post-mortem trauma, including cases involving multiple injuries, extensive disfigurement, and significant tissue loss.
- Apply advanced soft tissue repair and waxing techniques, using specialist mortuary materials to accurately shape and restore facial features.
- Uphold professional and ethical standards, delivering high-quality post-mortem care that respects the dignity of the deceased and supports bereaved families.
Course Leads
