LJMU teams up with NHS England to inspire next generation of healthcare professionals

This June, LJMU hosted 160 young people from across the Liverpool City Region at two immersive careers events where they were able to gain insights into a variety of NHS roles.

Working in partnership with the Youth Engagement team from NHS England North West, the university’s Faculty of Health, Innovation, Technology and Science created two showcase days, first welcoming Year 8 schoolchildren followed by a day dedicated to Year 12 students.  

They undertook a series of workshops focused on nursing and paramedic skills, from taking blood samples to delivering chest compressions utilising LJMU’s state-of-the-art education facilities and simulation suites.

The events were supported by 25 current LJMU nursing and paramedic science students who also led on many of the interactive activities. They were able to inspire young people by talking about their studies as well as developing their own leadership skills.

After the events over 85% of the youngsters said that they would be likely to apply to study with LJMU and 79% said that they are now considering a career within the NHS.

Michelle Wood, Careers Leader and Health and Social Care teacher at Maricourt Catholic High School, said: “The staff and student mentors involved were all fantastic. They answered every question and supported every student. It was truly inspirational.”

Jamie Blake, a teacher from Maghull High School, said: “The kids absolutely loved it. Sometimes at these trips you are thrown so much information, and it can be quite boring – but because of the hands-on practical side…this was amazing.

So many of the children came away and are genuinely considering going into nursing, paramedic science or mental health nursing.

Following the success of this first-of-its-kind event delivered by LJMU and NHS England, the university has already been approached by five schools that attended to ensure that their pupils can benefit from future events.