T-Level students enjoy nursing and midwifery expert sessions

Students gained an insight into CPR, the importance of hygiene in medical settings and the birthing process

T-Level students took their first steps on a journey to a potential career in the NHS with expert sessions led by midwifery academics from Middlesex University.

Sixteen pupils in Year 12 from Saracens High School in Edgware, North London, enjoyed four days of curriculum focused activities at the West Stand in StoneX Stadium. They are working towards the NCFE T Level in Health (midwifery) curriculum, which provides a practical first step into the NHS and health employment.

T Levels, two-year courses for 16-19-year-olds, offer classroom-based technical programmes which give young people the skills needed to be an asset in the workplace. In total, they spend 80% of their time in the classroom and 20% of their time on industry placement and beforehand spend 35 hours taking part in activities which give them an insight into their future industry.

Saracens students learned about subjects such as CPR, the importance of hygiene in medical settings and knowledge of the birthing process with the hi-tech virtual reality mannequins which can simulate birthing and provide a unique training experience.

“We were delighted to provide a professional environment in our world class training centre at StoneX Stadium for students to build on the skills they learned at school.,” said Verona Hall, a Lecturer in Clinical Skills and Simulation who led the sessions.

Phil Barter, Deputy Dean of Health, Social Care and Education, added: “These activities allow Middlesex University to demonstrate its focus on investing in the immediate community thereby widening access and participation and preparing a health workforce that is from the community it serves.”

This project was a collaboration between the University, Barnet Education and Learning Service and Saracens High School.

Tracy Parrott, a Senior Curriculum Adviser at Barnet Education and Learning Service, said: “We are committed to extending the opportunities for Barnet’s young people to ensure they can access exciting and relevant technical and vocational qualifications and are well-prepared for all elements of the qualification.”

Professor Chris Caldwell, Chief Nurse NHS NCL ICB1 and MDX Visiting Clinical Professor, said: “The T Level in Health is a great place to start and build a career. I am delighted to see the development of entry routes into the NHS.”

It is hoped students will return to StoneX for additional sessions next year.

Rosie McIntyre, a Health Science teacher at Saracens High School, said: “It was a wonderful experience to visit the fantastic facilities at Middlesex and see our students engage in academic discussions around their midwifery course with the lectures. In addition it was great to watch our students' theory knowledge and practical skills gained from lessons at Saracens high school come to life in a professional setting.”

Find out more about studying Nursing and Midwifery at Middlesex University.