Poppy is studying a T-Level in Health at West Suffolk College, where she completes 80% of her learning in college and the remaining 20% on her T-Level placement at CUH where she gains skills, knowledge and hands on experience to aid her into her future career.
What made you choose to do a T-level, and why specifically here at CUH?
I believe that T-Levels offer classroom learning and hands-on experience, making them a good way to gain practical skills and knowledge. Choosing CUH specifically is due to its reputation and the options offered by the T-Level courses.
What does a typical day look like in your role?
Throughout the day, I provide support, along other health care professionals, to help patients with their activities of daily leaving. This includes personal care, eating and drinking, elimination etc.
Some days, I gain experience through completing a list provided by the Education Team and observe other healthcare professionals doing other things such as bladder scans, echocardiograms and cannulation.
What do you enjoy about your role?
I enjoy gaining hands on experience and developing skills that I cannot get in a classroom setting. During my time at CUH, I’ve been fascinated by meeting different healthcare professionals and learning how they collaborate to co-ordinate patient care.
My T-Level work placement at CUH has really helped with personal growth, boosting my confidence and developing valuable professional skills that will benefit me in the future.
What are your future intentions?
I currently work in care and enjoy providing this service and wish to continue in this field whilst I explore my options. Recently, I have had a few interests in roles such as a Theatre Nurse, a Surgical Technologist and a Healthcare Assistant. However, I am also open to opportunities outside of a hospital setting.
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?
To someone looking to take on a T-Level, I would recommend that they research opportunities the specific course provides and the options the qualification offer. They should make sure that it aligns with their interests as it can be challenging.
An industry placement within a T-Level provides practical experience along with skills development. It requires a set of skills that are important to be able to embrace, including time management, communication, teamwork and adaptability.
T-Levels provide many options when referring to further study. The qualification is widely recognised as well as the practical element.
What are the most important skills for life that you have developed in your role?
In this role, I have developed a range of new skills that will help me in everyday life. I have gained a strong ability to adapt to unfamiliar settings and have used my communication skills to help myself progress and adapt accordingly.
Additionally, I have built my resilience which has allowed me to overcome obstacles. My teamworking skills have developed further during my time at CUH due to the importance of teamwork within patient care.