Regions first Nursing Cadets explore future careers
A scheme backed by the Prince of Wales, and run by the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), is helping a group of young people at Basildon Hospital find out more about nursing as a potential career.
The hospital is the first in the region to host the group of students to take part in watching nurses in action on different wards or clinical areas, as Essex’s first ever RCN Prince of Wales Nursing Cadet scheme.
The 14 cadets, aged 16-17, spent 20 hours over four days at the hospital observing nurses caring for patients on wards and in clinical areas, including the world-renowned Essex Cardiothoracic Centre.
They also took part in practical sessions in the Trust’s cutting-edge simulation suite, which is a replica medical room that is used for training and practicing clinical skills.
Jennifer Marshall, Deputy Director of Nursing at the Trust, said: "It’s exciting to welcome our first RCN Prince of Wales Nursing Cadets. We hope that by giving them an insight into working in healthcare it will help develop their real-world skills, inspiring them to follow careers in the NHS and explore the opportunities our Trust offers."
The scheme gave them an introduction to potential careers in nursing. One of those taking part was Bethany Neill, aged 16, from South Woodham Ferrers.
She said: “There has been a variety of theoretical and practical learning and I have found both to be very insightful and helpful into helping decide what I want to do in the future. It has also been exciting as we are the first cohort gaining practical knowledge directly from staff working at a hospital.”
Supported by HRH Prince of Wales, the national scheme aims to develop and prepare cadets like Bethany for life-long success and to support them towards employment in nursing.
On completing the course, students received a certificate, module transcript, and a special alumni pin. They have the opportunity to become a scheme ambassador and become members of the RCN cadet alumni network, gaining access to local and national events, talks, and future employment opportunities.
Michelle Moseley, Head of Scheme at the RCN said "We love that our programme brings the nursing profession alive for potential nurses of the future. Partnerships with employers like Mid and South Essex NHS Foundation Trust are hugely important to add real life experience to the academic parts of the course. This blend of learning gives a real insight about work in health to our young people."