Plymouth Academy
The Plymouth Academy is a bespoke facility designed specifically to deliver high-quality diagnostic imaging training. Nestled in an area of outstanding natural beauty, the Academy offers an inspiring and supportive environment for learning and professional development.
From the ground up, the Academy has been built to blend traditional small-group teaching methods with cutting-edge simulation and digital technologies. This purpose-built space includes state-of-the-art equipment and thoughtfully designed training areas to enhance both teaching and clinical practice.
Ultrasound patients seen at the Academy are typically referred from Derriford Hospital in Plymouth, providing trainees with valuable real-world experience in a controlled and supportive setting.
Somerset Hub and Spoke
SWITA operates from the Taunton Diagnostic Centre and Musgrove Park Hospital, where we’ve invested in an ultrasound hub and spoke model to support hands-on learning for trainee sonographers and radiology registrars. These facilities offer a blend of simulation-based training and real patient interaction through structured training lists.
Led by SWITA practice educators, the training environment has received highly positive feedback from both trainees and patients. Trainees have praised the spacious, modern and calming atmosphere of the Taunton Diagnostic Centre, noting its contribution to a focused and supportive learning experience. Patients have also responded positively, appreciating the centre’s role as a training academy and actively engaging with students – adding meaningful value to the educational process.
Ultrasound patients seen at the Somerset Hub or Spoke will usually come from Somerset and the surrounding areas.
Bristol Spoke
University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust hosts an ultrasound spoke at Bristol Royal Infirmary on behalf of SWITA. Led by a SWITA practice educator, this facility offers hands-on training for trainee sonographers and resident doctors, seeing real patients on behalf of the Trust. Ultrasound patients seen at the Bristol spoke will usually come from Bristol and the surrounding areas.
