On 3rd October 2017, Life Sciences UTC played host to its first ever Health Education England event alongside Cheshire and Mersey Vocational Network. Over 25 visitors headed to the UTC for a full day programme where Denise Ward sparked off the session by detailing the various Pathways to health and busting myths about the number of sectors within the healthcare profession.
Victoria Reynolds of Merseyside Career Hub was up next, providing insight into the workforce landscape to date and drawing on a number of challenges faced in the health sector today. Interestingly, Victoria announced that the first ever Liverpool City Region Health Skills Show is set to take place at the end of November – a free event for likeminded organisations to demonstrate and showcase themselves.
The room was then introduced to the benefits of traineeships and Jo Hannah underlined the work of the Prince’s Trust, briefing the room on their latest ‘partner for care’ partnership. Jo touched on how the Trust enables young people to have a positive outlook, regardless of their previous background and in turn how this benefits the community.
Finally, Life Sciences UTC’s very own Director of Enterprise, along with Annette Pollitt of the Royal Hospital Liverpool outlined the current work experience projects and placement programmes that are adding a touch of life to the industry. Notably, the UTC/Royal Liverpool Cadet partnership programme is due to launch this November and is providing students with first-hand experience in their chosen specialism. Lyndsay Macaulay touched on the fulfilling process of journeying students to make them employment ready, and the importance of providing young people with both tangible and reflective experience. For any young person considering a future career in health care, these hands-on placements are ideal for those who are yet to explore their passion in a prospective healthcare field. The hands-on programme includes a care certification and offers a real taste of what it is to live and breathe a day to day role in health care.
Throughout the afternoon, visitors had a chance to mingle during vocational learning activities, accelerating the chance of effective partnerships and giving individuals the opportunity to share best practise.
The informative day shed light on the sheer significance that work experience opportunities have within the health economy. The tail end of the day had our visiting health professionals talking about the North West is dedicated to introducing a workforce that reflects the local population.
Overall, there was a strong buzz around creating a local talent pipeline for the community, and all involved left excited for what’s to come in the future of healthcare surrounding these promising partnerships.
To find out more about the Cadet Programme please contact [email protected] and keep your eyes peeled on our care academy. For information of any of the visitors featured, head to Health Education England.