Congratulations to 10 Notre Dame students taking the Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care, who successfully completed 8 weeks of work placement across their first year of study.
Our full-time health and social care CTEC, which is equivalent to 3 A levels, provides students with in depth knowledge of their subject, as well as allowing them to gain extensive experience in the workplace. During the 2018-19 academic year, this work experience included two weeks in a social care setting, one week undertaking enrichment activities with Leeds Teaching Hospitals, and 4 weeks in either St. James’ Hospital or at Leeds General Infirmary. The month-long placement enabled students to immerse themselves in the day-to-day life of a hospital. Our students worked in a range of departments, including cardiology, respiratory medicine, and surgery. They gained an insight into what life might be like as a nurse, developed a range of employability skills, and increased their overall confidence. Though the placements were highly demanding – both physically and mentally – our students thrived and the feedback they received was extremely positive.
Gemma Driver, who completed a surgical rotation placement, was described as a ‘star student… willing to take on any task
she was given, and complete it to the best of her ability’. Celia Vaz and Hannah Ntaibu were both complimented for showing patience and resilience, as well as being highly competent in recording patient observations. Lily Williamson was praised as ‘outstanding… one
of the most helpful students the team has ever worked with.’ These comments, made by experienced medical professionals, clearly illustrate the maturity and excellent work ethic of this group of students.
To celebrate their successes in the work place we held an event for these students, which was also attended by their parents and senior staff from college. Each student was presented with a certificate, chocolates and a book entitled The Language of Kindness; a Nurse’s Story, which hopefully provided some inspiring summer reading.
These placements formed a part of Notre Dame’s work with the Capacity Delivery Fund, which aims to increase the provision of long-term industry placements available to students studying at post-16. This year, we aim to provide placements of 9 weeks for 22 students studying health and social care. This sector looks set to grow in the Leeds region, so we value the opportunity to equip our students with the experience they need to thrive in this area of work.
Website By Rejuvenate Digital