The James Paget University Hospital (JPUH), in Gorleston, has teamed up with Lowestoft Sixth Form College and East Coast College after the successful launch of the Paget’s new Health Academy earlier this year. Anyone at the college interested in a future career in healthcare, whether as a nurse, doctor or other health professional, will be invited to apply for the academy, which will formally start in September 2018. Those successful in their applications will continue their studies at the college but will be released for a few days over a six month period to take part in sessions at the hospital’s on-site education and training centre. The sessions are designed to give more information about potential careers, opportunities to progress and what working in a busy hospital is like.
Sharon Crowle, head of education and practice development at the JPUH, said the academy was another way the hospital was looking to encourage more people into nursing and associated careers. She said: “We want to attract people into healthcare, which can be a rewarding profession in itself but which also offers lots of opportunities to progress.
“We want to widen participation by young people who may have an interest in healthcare and a desire to find out more about what it entails. The academy will teach life skills, resilience and communication techniques as well about more about the roles themselves and working at our hospital.
“There will be recognition for those taking part, including certificates to mark completion of the academy programme, and we hope this will be a valuable and recognised step into working at the hospital.”
Ian McLean, head of maths and director of STEM at Lowestoft Sixth Form College said: “Lowestoft Sixth Form College is really excited to be teaming up with the James Paget to give our students the opportunity to learn some valuable skills and gain experience in the healthcare profession.
“Students are already looking forward to getting started on the programme and to the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.”