Anatomage Table: Opening New Frontiers in Science Learning

Written by India Robinson, ISP Alumna Class of 2022

At ISP, innovation in education is a daily practice. This year, the school is proud to introduce the Anatomage Table - an advanced virtual dissection and 3D anatomy tool used by top medical schools and hospitals around the world. This state-of-the-art technology offers a rare, university-level resource right in ISP classrooms. The Anatomage Table is a testament to the commitment and generosity of our ISP Fund donors, whose support has provided students with this invaluable experience. This table marks an exciting step forward in interdisciplinary STEM education.

The Anatomage Table is a digital autopsy table that features 7 cadavers for students to explore systems of the body, CT scan case studies, functional anatomy applications, forensic cause of death studies and more. The table also features science simulations for enhanced learning and theoretical data collection in the areas of physics, chemistry, biology and earth/space science. The table is being used as an instructional tool school wide (Grades 4-12) and students are able to use the table across curriculum in Grades 6-12. 

A New Era of Hands-On Learning

The Anatomage Table is the cornerstone of ISP's new, forefront Forensic Science elective in the Upper School. This course brings science to life and prepares students for the complex, real-world challenges of the 21st century. The curriculum introduces students to key forensic disciplines through lab experiments and mock crime scenes, where they use the table as a central tool to develop crucial skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific inquiry.

“The cool thing about forensic science is the integration, the real-world connections, and the exploratory learning.”

Kate Allender, STEM Coordinator

Forensic Science offers a unique opportunity for students to engage in highly integrated and exploratory learning. The course emphasises the application of concepts from various disciplines, from using algebraic equations in anthropology to calculate a person's height based on bone analysis, to applying geometry functions to analyse blood spatter patterns. This hands-on, lab-based approach allows students to see the direct relevance of their learning. This innovative approach directly addresses a critical gap in traditional learning. 

A School-Wide Resource

While the Anatomage Table is an integral part of the Forensic Science elective, its use extends far beyond a single course. It has become a dynamic, cross-disciplinary resource for the entire school. Middle School Language and Literature teachers are using it to explore the neuroscience of language acquisition, and a future collaboration is planned with a MS Individuals and Societies teacher to explore plate tectonics. The table will even be used with Grade 5 students for their puberty unit, offering a three-dimensional visual of reproductive structures and embryonic development. With thousands of case studies, CT scans, and scientific simulations, the possibilities are truly endless.

“The table is incredibly valuable for teaching children. Visualising learning and transferring concepts from 2D to 3D greatly enhances student understanding.”

Kate Allender, STEM Coordinator

Empowering a New Generation

Beyond the scientific content, ISP’s new Anatomage Table inspires curiosity, reinforces ethical reasoning, and empowers students to apply STEM knowledge to meaningful, real-world scenarios. Students are becoming more passionate, asking deeper questions, and making connections across different disciplines.

“The table has a wow factor. Students are becoming confident in driving their own learning and advocating for their own learning. They’re able to teach each other.”

Dr. Cal Callaway, ISP Director

With the addition of the Anatomage Table and the forward-thinking Forensic Science course, ISP continues to lead the way in delivering a holistic, inquiry-based education that is both relevant and engaging. The curriculum also supports future career exploration across a multitude of fields, encouraging students to innovate in their learning and perhaps even inspiring the forensic scientists of tomorrow. ISP Fund is grateful to its community and donors, whose support of cutting-edge equipment and programmes empowers students to push the boundaries of learning.

Join Us

Our community’s generosity and involvement shape ISP, helping our students learn in new and inspiring ways.We invite you to continue this journey by making a gift to the ISP Fund 2025/26.