Last week the School of Health Sciences hosted a NextGen Nursing workshop, providing pupils from across the region the opportunity to visit the University and gain insight into nursing as a career.
The Talent Foundry is an education charity working with disadvantaged and underserved young people and schools across the UK. They aim to help students discover their potential and provide inspiration. They are currently working in partnership with the NHS to deliver ‘Next Generation Nurse, pathways to nursing’ at institutions across the UK. This event was organised by Ashli Warburton and Dr Victoria Kinsley, Joint School Leads for Widening Participation, and aimed at those in post 16 education.
Attendees included pupils from the University’s partner widening participation schools as well as other schools and colleges further afield. Significant interest for the event meant spaces filled up quickly.
The day started with inspirational talks from student ambassadors from the School of Health Sciences. They shared their pathways into nursing and experiences of university life so far. Their passion and enthusiasm towards their chosen career paths prompted many questions from the audience. Academic staff also provided invaluable and reassuring information regarding the University’s application process, with students leaving the session feeling more confident about the selection process.
In the afternoon, the student ambassadors led a tour of the campus. Visitors were able to see the University’s facilities and had the opportunity to explore the study spaces in the library.
The day finished back in the School’s Florence Nightingale Suite, with attendees joining in with simulation activities delivered by the School’s Simulation Lead Jackie Yip and Barry Crosbie. The visitors were introduced to the high-fidelity mannikins and were encouraged to try activities including CPR. They also enjoyed an educational experience with the Anatomage table, observing a demonstration and completed an anatomy quiz as a team.
Ashli Warburton commented: “The event was a great success and we look forward to working with the Talent Foundry again in the future and provide further opportunities for prospective students.”
Feedback from visitors
“Thank you for hosting such an amazing session”
“Blown away by the activity with the manikins!”
“‘V’ the student ambassador was particularly animated and inspirational, Alison was a major asset and the use of technology was incredible.”
“The student ambassadors gave 100% and were incredibly helpful and supportive, thank you very much. I hope we’ll have the opportunity to participate again. Everyone involved was friendly, knowledgeable and supportive, they couldn’t have done more for us.”
“The afternoon was fantastic and the practical activities really engaged the students and get them excited about nursing.”
“What an outstanding host you and your colleagues were”
“Student nurses and ambassadors were great for questions and answers”