The Isle of Wight NHS Trust welcomed its first cohort of 13 young learners, who joined the Careers for Young People Programme earlier this month (5th September).
This innovative training programme was developed in partnership with colleagues from HTP Apprenticeship College as part of a two-year education programme which offers a route into a fulfilling NHS career.
Six-month traineeship programme
The new recruits will take part in a six-month traineeship programme, which provides young people aged 16-24, leaving school, or currently not working, with the opportunity to start their career and gain experience and skills to boost their prospects.
On successful completion of the traineeship, an 18-month apprenticeship with the Trust can begin straight away with further opportunities for career progression available, right through to Degree Level.
Placements in Healthcare and Business Support services
Over the coming months, they will undertake placements in both Healthcare and Business Support services and with over 150 roles available at the Trust on the Island, they will gain a valuable insight into the roles and careers available.
As part of their practical experience, they will get the chance to shadow healthcare professionals across a range of services and roles, including community nursing, mental health and the Allied Health Professions.
Longson: Developing skills and experience needed
Nicola Longson, Director of Community Services said,
“The Careers for Young People programme was designed to introduce young people to the range of career possibilities within the NHS and it underpins our vision to grow our own future workforce.
“This work experience programme will lead to these trainees developing the skills and experience needed to secure paid apprenticeships and sustainable employment in the future.
“It is an inspirational initiative that presents a truly exciting opportunity for these young people to forge successful careers within the NHS.”
Finch: A very special place to work
Rachel Finch, Careers for Young People Learner said,
“At the NHS everyone is equal – it’s like a big family and I think it’s a very special place to work.
“It’s a big dream of mine work here and my dream job is to become a children’s nurse. I’m really excited about learning new skills and learning a lot along the way. Over the next year, I am going to put myself out there with confidence and strive to get my Care Certificate and then move on with the NHS.”
Bush: I like the idea of being very busy and helping people
Tara Bush, Careers for Young People Learner said,
“I have always been interested in caring for and looking after people and I want to make it my career.
“I want to be a paramedic because I like the idea of being very busy and on the go and helping people.
“I was attracted to work for the NHS because of their caring values and I feel excited and positive about my placement.”
Moody: I’d like to help people by working in mental health
Tyler Moody, Careers for Young People Learner said,
“I’d like to gain a lot of experience and make new friends. I’m good with people and, in the future, I’d like to help people by working in mental health.
“I am very excited about next week when I will be able to take up my placement in the clinical areas. I’d encourage other people considering this traineeship to not miss out on an opportunity like this. There are lots of people to meet and lots of experience to gain, plus it’s fun too.”
News shared by Isle of Wight NHS Trust, in their own words. Ed
