News
AAPT Chair Report 2026
The Chair of the AAPT, Lydia Judge-Kronis CSci FAAPT looks back at the last 12 months and ahead for the APT profession
As we reflect on the past 12 months, I am pleased to share a year of continued progress, strengthened professional recognition, and growing confidence in the future of Anatomical Pathology Technology.
A Recognised and Respected Voice
One of the enduring ambitions of the AAPT is to be recognised—by members, stakeholders, and partner organisations—as the credible and respected expert voice for anatomical pathology technology. Over the last year, that recognition has continued to grow.
Although we remain a relatively small professional body, AAPT representation across relevant national forums remains strong. Our engagement with professional partners demonstrates that our voice is heard and valued. Importantly, membership now exceeds 400, and joining AAPT is increasingly seen as the natural professional home for those working in our field.
Professional Standards and Best Practice
Over the next year, Council has reaffirmed its commitment to the development and regular review of AAPT best practice documents. This is a clear statement of intent: we will not only represent the profession but actively shape and support high standards within it.
Continuing Professional Development (CPD) remains central to professional accountability. We continue to promote registration with the Science Council and the Academy for Healthcare Science (AHCS), and I am delighted to report significant growth in the AAPT register of Registered Science Technicians (RSciTech) — particularly through the shortened route option introduced in the last year.
Professional registration is not merely a badge; it is a public commitment to competence, ethics, and lifelong learning. In a climate where scrutiny and accountability in healthcare have never been more visible, this matters greatly.
Assessment of Trainee APTs
Improving the assessment process for trainee APTs remains a personal priority for me as Chair. Over the last year we have:
- Continued to support assessor visits nationwide
- Worked towards greater consistency in practical assessment
- Begun strengthening the practical elements of assessor training
However, to ensure sustainability and national consistency, we must expand our pool of assessors. I would strongly encourage experienced colleagues to consider stepping forward. Standardisation and fairness in trainee assessment are essential if we are to maintain confidence in the RSPH Level 4 qualification and the profession as a whole.
Regulation and the Wider Context
The profession continues to operate within a changing and, at times, challenging landscape.
The UK Government’s consideration of the Phase 2 recommendations of the Independent Inquiry led by Sir Jonathan Michael into criminal acts within an NHS mortuary represents a significant moment for our profession. Regardless of the final outcome, the case has sharpened the focus on statutory regulation, accountability, and public protection.
The AAPT’s position remains clear: we will continue to advocate for statutory professional registration for Anatomical Pathology Technologists, in line with many other healthcare science professions. Statutory regulation protects the public, strengthens the profession, and provides a platform for future development, including advanced practice opportunities.
Alongside this, changes to the statutory death certification process have added operational complexity for mortuaries, impacting capacity and service delivery. This has reinforced the importance of collaborative working with pathology colleagues, coronial services, and funeral director partners. The professionalism shown by APTs during this period of transition has been commendable.
Education, Events and Representation
The work of AAPT Council and our secretariat continues at pace. Over the past year we have:
- Delivered another highly successful Annual Educational Event (AEE)
- Provided consent training with expert contributors from the Human Tissue Authority (HTA)
- Organised trainee assessor visits
- Supported members with professional registration applications
- Represented the profession at NHSE perinatal and paediatric services, RCPath and UK DVI level
The growth of the AAPT since its formation in 2002 is remarkable. What began as a small professional association has matured into an established, respected voice within healthcare science.
Looking Ahead
As we look forward, our priorities are clear:
- Continued advocacy for statutory regulation
- Further development and review of best practice guidance
- Expansion and standardisation of assessor training
- Ongoing promotion of CPD and professional registration
- Strengthening national representation and stakeholder engagement
Most importantly, we will continue to invest in our members — because the strength of the AAPT lies in the commitment, integrity and expertise of its professionals.
Annual Educational Event 2026
I am also delighted to highlight our next Annual Educational Event:
Saturday 26 September 2026
Mercure Sheffield St Paul’s Hotel & Spa
119 Norfolk Street
Sheffield, S1 2JE
The AEE continues to be a highlight of the professional calendar — a fantastic opportunity to learn, share best practice, present new ideas, and network with colleagues from across the UK. I very much hope to see you there.
A Final Word
As Chair, my message remains simple -- be kind to yourself whilst discovering your full potential!
Make that professional registration application, consider becoming an assessor. The profession grows stronger when its members unite and support each other.
I remain available via the dedicated Chair email and would welcome hearing from both members and non-members alike.
Thank you for your continued support of the AAPT.
Lydia Judge-Kronis CSci FAAPT
Chair, AAPT