Career-minded students from Nelson and Colne College have been putting their spare time to good use over Summer by embarking on fulfilling work experience and volunteering placements.
From teaching abroad, to working within the NHS, to volunteering in Equador with VESAbroad, to securing internships at local companies, students have been throwing themselves into the world of work to enhance their skills and get themselves ready for University and their future careers.
For Junaid Naveed, a Level 3 Science student, Summer has seen him gain invaluable experience on the A&E ward at Royal Blackburn Hospital and helped him grow in confidence as he plans to study Operating Department Practice at University following his time at NCC.
Junaid, 18, said: “I initially started volunteering on the surgical ward during term time, which I found to be an excellent opportunity as I have adapted to the norms and values of working in a hospital and interacting with all the different members who take part in the healthcare of a patient – from Health Care Assistants to the Doctors.
“During the holidays I have also started to volunteer in the A&E department which is a very intense atmosphere. In this department, I help do any duties that aren’t clinically involved. Hopefully, I will soon start volunteering in Theatre which I believe will be really useful to my career choice and will confirm if ODP is the career for me.
“I’m thoroughly enjoying my time at Royal Blackburn Hospital and the staff there are very welcoming. I would strongly advise anyone wanting to work in the NHS/healthcare to volunteer at the hospital as it is a massive learning curve and the help is highly appreciated.”
Both A Level and vocational students are encouraged to make work experience an integral part of their study programme – in particular, those choosing to enter a particular occupation or profession, like Junaid.
Junaid added: “I would also like to add that my form tutor and the science department at NCC have been very helpful and supportive in my journey – and it shows that Nelson and Colne College do more than just provide a fine education. I also think that without my tutor Alison I wouldn’t have volunteered because it was during our 1:1 where she made me realise that my future is in my hands.”
Nelson and Colne College has a range of support and services available to students to help them prepare for their next step, including the NCC+ Careers Zone. The expert NCC+ team offer students personalised support, including helping to source work placements and part-time jobs tailored to personal aspirations, CV development and interview techniques. For more information about studying at Nelson and Colne College contact 01282 440272 or visit www.nelson.ac.uk
