Recite me link

A careers event, held at Maidstone Hospital Academic Centre last week, was attended by 170 students and over 200 people in total.

The event was the second of its kind, and was run by Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust (MTW) in conjunction with Health Education England, across Kent, Surrey and Sussex and Kent and Medway STEM Hub. The day aimed to provide an innovative and interactive programme for 14-19 year olds to develop their understanding around the breadth of health and social care careers.

There were more than 20 stands at the event with representatives from a cross-section of departments from MTW, including Pathology, Research, and Surgery, as well as from health related organisations including. SECamb, Sense, MCCH and LDC Care.

During the event, students had the chance to split into small groups and speak to representatives from all the organisations in attendance. They also had the chance to watch medical simulation presentations and try their hand at simulated laparoscopic exercises.

Gayle Epps, from Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, who led in the organisation of the event, said: “The event was, once again, very well-received and gave all those who came along a good insight into the wide range of careers available within a health and social care setting. We hope that many of the students who attended might follow a career path with Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, either through an apprenticeship, or through other recruitment opportunities.”

One student, who attended the event, commented: “Today helped me realise that you can do an apprenticeship to become a qualified nurse.”

Another added: “Today made me understand how many career pathways there are in the NHS.”

One of the teachers accompanying a group of students said: “I would just like to let you know what a fantastic event this was. It totally exceeded all our expectations and our students got so much out of it, from inspiration regarding careers to a real deepening of their understanding of certain roles in the NHS and the ways that technology and science are developing services.

“The whole day was so well organised and it flew by without a hitch. Please be assured that we will be attending any future events to which we are invited.”

Ends

Note to editors:
The event was held on 16 March.