OVER 70 secondary pupils from across the region took part in Dumfries and Galloway Health and Social Partnership’s work experience week.
The pupils gained a firsthand insight into the work involved in roles ranging from care at home worker to dentist, laboratory scientist, IT technician and doctor – potentially shaping their future careers.
Last Friday, pupils had the opportunity to get creative and present key skills, knowledge and what they learned throughout their placement.
Originally only 67 placements were available, but after the volume of interest and 126 applications, a total of 78 placements were ultimately provided.
Moffat Academy seniors Amber Thomson and Ellie Redshaw were amongst those who took part in the experience. Amber spent her week shadowing and observing the midwifery team, now she hopes to study midwifery at university. She said: “Before this I couldn’t decide between paediatric nursing or midwifery but this week has given me more insight into what it’s actually like to be a midwife and what it’s like to be on the maternity ward.
“I did get to observe a childbirth the other day, it was one of the best experiences I’ve ever had. I never thought going into this I’d get to experience something like that but that is what has made me go towards midwifery.”
Ellie spent the her work experience within the human resources team at the hospital and is now looking forward to studying business after she leaves school, she said: “It’s been really good, this week has made me realise that I do want to do business or human resources at university, because we’ll be starting to work on our personal statements in the next couple of weeks.
“It was really interesting to see the more businessy side of the NHS, because it let me know that there is a career for me within the NHS if I want to stay here in Dumfries and Galloway.”
The feedback from both students and NHS staff about the work experience week been predominantly positive with hopes to offer similar experiences in years to come.
Partnership chief officer Julie White said: “Attracting people to come and work within health and social care is vital, as we look to ensure we have a modern, sustainable service which can serve our region’s population for years to come.
“I attended the afternoon of presentations which rounded out the week, and was so impressed by the calibre of these young people
“If they choose to pursue a career within health and social care in Dumfries and Galloway, our services can only benefit.”
