STUDENTS received valuable careers advice in a ground-breaking work experience pilot scheme organised by Birmingham Hospice.
Twelve pupils in Years 10, 11 and 12 took part in the four-day programme and learned about the hospice’s history, and how we provide palliative and end of life care.
The innovative project saw those attending take part in a range of informative workshops hosted by teams from Clinical, Corporate and Retail areas of the charity, which helped them to obtain a valuable insight into the world of work.
The work experience programme was organised by the hospice’s People Team and Clinical Education Team.
Sessions included experience in communication, teamwork, planning and problem-solving, helping the young people gain skills, boost their confidence and make valuable additions to their CVs.
Among the activities they took part in were handling medical devices, learning clinical skills and mannequin dressing with the Retail Team.
Our Children’s Healing and Therapeutic Team (CHATS) also held sessions on bereavement training and spiritual care.
Chief Executive Paul Bytheway talked about his own career pathway with the pupils, while another highlight was meeting and interacting with Living Well Centre patients.
The programme was designed to introduce opportunities for all and welcomed young people from a variety of backgrounds, as well as Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) pupils.
Clinical Education Admin Assistant Sarah Lone, who led the programme, said: “I was delighted to welcome the students, and they showed great enthusiasm and curiosity throughout.
“We wanted to show all the opportunities open to them and inspire them to consider careers they might not have thought about before.”
In their feedback, attendees showed an interest in pursuing counselling as a career and recognised the importance of hard work. Several have also said they would like to volunteer for the hospice.
