The Dudley Group NHS Foundation Trust and Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust marked T Levels Week by celebrating the achievements of 137 students who have gained valuable hands-on experience across their services, with some already progressing into NHS employment and others pursuing further studies in healthcare.
Working in partnership with local colleges, including Dudley College, Halesowen College and Sandwell College, the Trusts provide students with opportunities to learn in a real healthcare environment and gain insight into the vital work of NHS teams.
T Levels are two-year technical qualifications for 16 to 19 year olds, combining classroom learning with an industry placement. They help prepare students for skilled employment, apprenticeships or further study by giving them the opportunity to put their learning into practice.
During their placements, students are supported by experienced healthcare professionals in a nurturing and supervised environment. They develop their confidence, build practical skills and learn about delivering compassionate, patient-centred care, while gaining a better understanding of the values, behaviours and responsibilities expected of NHS staff.
Devincia Richardson who recently completed a Business Management and Administration course at The Dudley Group said, “Through my course I’ve developed my communication, teamwork and problem-solving skills, while becoming more confident, professional and better prepared for the workplace.
“The experience has helped me understand how to work effectively with others and manage my time. I hope to build on these skills and continue to develop my knowledge and experience in a professional environment.”
The placements can also provide a valuable stepping stone towards a future career. At The Dudley Group, several students have gone on to complete their Care Certificate and join the Trust’s Staff Bank, while others have progressed to university courses in nursing, midwifery, paramedic science, physiotherapy and occupational therapy.
These experiences demonstrate how early exposure to healthcare can help young people identify their ambitions, understand the opportunities available to them and take meaningful steps towards achieving their goals.
T-Level student Ibrahim Ahmad said, “My course has given me valuable practical and digital skills, including using Microsoft Excel and online booking systems to manage data and appointments accurately.
Although I found some tasks challenging at first, practising and asking questions has helped me build my confidence, problem-solving skills and attention to detail. I’m looking forward to building on this experience and pursuing a career in administration or healthcare support.”
Supporting T Level students also plays an important role in the long-term development of the NHS workforce. By working closely with local education providers, the Trusts can help nurture future healthcare professionals, create potential pathways into employment and strengthen their connections with the communities they serve.
Michelle Jarrott, Group Careers and Employability Project Co-ordinator, “Supporting T Level students is a valuable investment in the future of the NHS. These placements give young people the opportunity to develop their skills, build confidence and experience what working in a healthcare environment is really like. By providing the right guidance and encouragement, we can help them recognise their potential and explore the many career paths available to them.
“It’s incredibly rewarding to see students grow throughout their placements, and we hope these experiences inspire them to become the healthcare professionals and colleagues of the future.”
As well as benefiting students, the placements give existing staff the opportunity to share their knowledge, mentor young people and inspire the next generation of colleagues.
The Trusts are proud to play a part in helping young people discover their potential and explore the many different ways they could build a rewarding career within the NHS.