Teenagers get taste of NHS careers thanks to UHNM initiative

A new work experience programme has launched at University Hospitals North Midlands (UHNM), aimed at 14-year-old school students who are starting to think about their future careers. 

Twelve students from three schools, Alsager High, Chesterton Community Sports College and Discovery Academy took part in the week-long experience at Staffordshire Children’s Hospital at Royal Stoke with two further week-long sessions due to take place later in the year. 

The programme aims to introduce the school students to various healthcare roles across child health, explore NHS values and emphasise the key skills and attributes they need to work in the NHS. 

The week-long programme consists of tours of departments and clinics, career pathway discussions and interactive sessions led by teams from across the organisation such as radiology, pharmacy, and infection prevention.

Dr Caroline Groves, Consultant Paediatrician at UHNM, said: “Within child health we thought that it was important to put together a really engaging programme for young people who are unsure if they want a career within the NHS. We really want to highlight the wide variety of roles across child health and beyond in the NHS and have developed a programme that is not just about becoming a doctor or nurse. We wanted to ensure that a wide range of departments are represented, both clinical and non-clinical, so that the students can understand the broadness of NHS and what is available to them. 

“I am really proud of what we have put together for these students and it’s been a great opportunity for young people to explore a future career at UHNM and for us to potentially meet our future workforce.” 

Aysha Kent, Education and Future Workforce Manager at UHNM, added: “Many young people are interested in healthcare careers but may not fully understand the wide range of roles and opportunities available and since there are age restrictions for traditional work experience placements in clinical settings, this formal programme is invaluable in introducing students to the NHS and highlighting the wide range of opportunities available.

“At UHNM we offer valuable insight into early career opportunities and a lack of formal qualifications is not always a barrier to starting a rewarding and successful career.”