More than 160 local students spilled into the University of Hertfordshire in Hatfield last Wednesday (7 February) for the free event where they met health and care colleagues from across the area.
The space bustled with young people at stalls exploring interactive equipment to help demonstrate what different health and care jobs can involve. The careers showcased included social care, primary care, pathology, nursing, allied health professionals (AHPs), midwifery, healthcare science, pharmacy, medicine, mental health, library services, artificial intelligence (AI) and innovation.
There were also ambulance tours and CPR demonstrations courtesy of colleagues from the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust, as well as work experience, education and apprenticeships, and recruitment teams on hand to give guidance on those important next steps. North Herts College and course tutors from the university also took part, and Hertfordshire County Council and Communities 1st were also available to speak about volunteering programmes.
The event – established in 2017 and formerly known as Future Heroes – entered a new era this year with a different location and a new name. And in an event-first, there was an afternoon drop-in session for the public to learn more about health and care careers in our area – a slot which attracted dozens of people including uni students and their families.
Event organiser Niki Galvin, the Academy’s Engagement Officer, said: “I would personally like to say a huge thank you to everyone who attended and supported this year’s event. Yes, it’s hard work but the buzz and the atmosphere, and the opportunity it gives our colleagues and students, puts the biggest smile on my face.”
The event was held during National Apprenticeship Week, which you can read more about on the integrated care system website. Emily Frost, who has just completed an exciting cross-sector Pre-Registration Pharmacy Technician apprenticeship through East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, Hertfordshire Community Trust and our ICB, answers some questions about what inspired her to go down the apprenticeship route and what value it has given her.
Visit the Health and Care Academy’s website for more about apprenticeships and all other recruitment, training and development news and opportunities in our area.