Health cadets rise to the challenge
Fri, 16 July 2021
Tameside College’s health and social care cadet scheme has gone from strength to strength in a year during a global pandemic that has tested the resilience of the country’s healthcare network. With the support of an enterprising partnership between the college, local authority and local health trusts, the project has enjoyed a successful maiden year.
The new health and social care cadet programme was launched last September to improve access to a number of careers in the sector. Students study two days a week in college as well as working on a placement for two days a week. The scheme has widened access to a diverse range of careers in Tameside hospital, general practices, care settings and within the community. The advanced qualification prepares students for further study at degree level, as their specialist careers develop.
The placement opportunities have been supported by a unique partnership of organisations that include: Tameside & Glossop Integrated Care NHS Foundation Trust (T&GICFT) and Tameside Council (TMBC), Tameside and Glossop CCG (T&G CCG) and Pennine Care NHS Foundation Trust (PCT).
Mary Hornby, former Denton Community College pupil and current Tameside College student, who has been working in a Covid 19 mass testing centre, said: “It has been a great experience. I have met new people and my confidence has grown by improving my communication and team working skills.”
Lorna Fegan, head of department at Tameside College, said: “This has been a fantastic experience for our students. The opportunities of working with specialists range from physiotherapy to re-enablement and integrated care. It has given the students a great insight into potential careers and where their skills, talents and interests lie.”
Tameside College is currently recruiting for the health and social cadet scheme for September 2021. Applicants need at least 5 GCSEs (above grade 4, including maths and English) for this advanced level course.
To apply for the health and social care cadets scheme, visit the college website.