Purpose To design and validate a new and cost-effective animal tissue model for training neonatal minimal access surgery (MAS) skills. Methods A prospective observational study was performed during two Minimally Access Surgery Skill Labs in June 2018 and April 2019. Selected laparoscopic exercises were performed on fresh chicken cadavers using 3 mm MAS instruments (adhesiolysis, cholecystectomy and intestinal anastomosis). Data for validation were collected with a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire based on the Michigan Standard Simulation Experience Scale (MiSSES) and analysis was performed. Results Twenty-seven course participants were recruited (18 females: 9 males). Eighteen delegates (67%) had experience < 50 MAS cases, 6 delegates (22%) 50-100 cases and 3 delegates (11%) > 100 cases. The mean perceived degree of realism was 3.