Marley is studying a T-Level in Health at West Suffolk College, where he completes 80% of his learning in college and the remaining 20% on his T-Level placement at CUH where he gains skills, knowledge and hands on experience to aid him into his future career.
What made you choose to do a T-level, and why specifically here at CUH?
I chose to do a T-level mainly for its focus on health and the fact that I could get hands on experience within a hospital. The reason I chose to do my placement at CUH was because of the opportunity that may come with it compared to my local hospital. It’s much bigger and busier so I can gain more experience and spend more time working with staff and patients.
What does a typical day look like in your role?
My role mainly mirrors what Healthcare Assistants do. I get put on a team and start morning rounds, making beds and helping with washing and personal patient care. Mid-day is observation time, whether this is every 4 hours or 4 times daily. It’s usually not as busy unless a patient needs help with the toilet or moving. I help out at lunch and repeat observations until I finish at 4.00 pm.
Every day is different so the tasks or things I view change regularly. I’ve been based mainly on Ward D5 and throughout the day I will get a 15 minute and a 1 hour break.
What do you enjoy about your role?
I enjoy getting to help people and becoming more aware of different health conditions. The staff I work alongside have all been very welcoming, so it was easy to transition in to communicating with patients and understanding their needs.
Whether I am helping a patient with washing or to use a hoist, or even just getting them a cup of tea, if it makes someone who is struggling feel better, it makes me feel like I’m doing the right thing.
What are your future intentions?
This placement has helped me to confirm that I would like to go into Diagnostic Radiography in the future.
What advice would you give to others who may be looking to take on a T-level and how do you think it relates or helps you with regards to further study – Apprenticeship / University?
I think it’s a good opportunity if you know what career you would like to go into such as Nursing, Physiotherapy or other health careers. It’s great as you get to have placement hours, which can put you at an advantage compared to A level students who would have to do out of school hours to get the same level of experience compared to T level students.
You also already have connections with the health care system so if you have done really well in your placement, you may be more likely to get a job with the Trust.
What are the most important skills for life that you have developed in your role?
This placement has made me a bit more confident and helped me with my communication skills.