Nurses train for the future
A celebration took place at Chesterfield Royal Hospital to signal the end of a cadetship programme which gave Chesterfield College students the chance to gain vital hands-on nursing experience.
The 13 specially-selected health and social care students were given the opportunity to work with health care assistants to learn core skills like personal care and communication skills. They worked in many areas of the hospital from maternity to palliative care; getting a real insight into the different facets of nursing.
Student Hannah Birks, age 19 said: “The cadetship has given me unique experiences that I really believe have helped me to secure my place on a midwifery course at Sheffield Hallam University next year.
“I spent part of my cadetship in the maternity ward working alongside experienced midwives who helped me to see exactly what the role involved. It has made me even more determined to get the qualifications I need for a career in this field of nursing.”
Liz Claridge, Clinical Education and Training Sister said: “The cadetship gives us an opportunity to excite students about nursing as well as ensure they get a realistic impression of what the role involves.
“The cadets don’t just come in and watch what happens – they get involved, with patients consent, and do tasks that they would do working in a ward environment under the watchful eye of our qualified team. On any one day students could be assisting with personal care, monitoring patients’ condition, observing in theatre, or helping to care for new-borns.”
Stuart Allen, Director of Learning for Health, Wellbeing and Society said “I would like to congratulate all of the cadets and thank all of the team at Chesterfield College and at Chesterfield Royal Hospital for supporting our students.
“This type of meaningful and challenging work experience is vital to engage students and inspire them for the future. It helps them to develop and use their knowledge, skills and experiences in industry related settings whilst also preparing them for life.”
(Image shows Chesterfield College cadets celebrating with Liz Claridge from Chesterfield Royal Hospital and Rebecca Croydon, Work Placement Supervisor from Chesterfield College.)
