Students from schools across North Lincolnshire got a better understanding of career opportunities in healthcare when they attended a Step Into Health work experience day at University Campus North Lincolnshire in Scunthorpe.
Eighty Year 10 pupils experienced hands-on activities led by healthcare professionals, including simulations in a real-life mock hospital ward and skill-building exercises designed to inspire and inform them about the diverse roles and opportunities in healthcare, highlighting both clinical and non-clinical career paths.
They experienced the Accident and Emergency Department, learned basic first aid techniques and used an age simulator to understand the challenges faced by elderly patients.
They were also able to meet and chat to clinical and non-clinical professionals.
Schools had the opportunity to send up to 20 students for a taster day to gain information regarding skills, qualities and minimum qualifications required as well as course entry requirements and other career options within the allied professional industries.
Employers in the region are grappling with a shortage of qualified staff and the need for specialised training to meet the diverse health needs of Greater Lincolnshire. Additionally, a general lack of awareness about the multitude of career paths within the health and care sector has led to limited interest from young people.
The event sought to bridge the gap between education and employment, showcasing the rewarding careers available and taking a step towards encouraging young people to explore a future in the sector.
Paul Stapleton, Team Leader for Health at DN Colleges Group, said: “It has been fantastic to see such strong engagement from our local secondary schools. Showcasing the wide variety of careers in health and social care is crucial for inspiring the next generation.
“This event provided invaluable insights and opportunities for students, highlighting the diverse and rewarding paths available within this vital sector.”
Hayley Beardmore, Enterprise Coordinator at the Greater Lincolnshire LEP, said: “Highlighting the fantastic career opportunities on our doorstep is an important priority of ours, and we have a great team that brings together school, colleges and business to help young people experience the world of work at first hand.
“Thank you to Paul Stapleton and his team for putting on such an engaging event to showcase the various careers available within the healthcare sector.”
Pauline Cook from Outwood Academy Brumby said: “The students had an incredible experience discovering the amazing opportunities the university offers in the field of medicine. It was engaging and informative, and the students enjoyed every moment.”
The event was organised in partnership by UCNL, the Greater Lincolnshire Careers Hub, the Humber and North Yorkshire Health and Care Partnership, and the Humber and North Yorkshire Allied Health Professions Council and Faculty.
