Joining the Wiltshire Health and Care team

Are you at school or college and thinking about a career in healthcare?

Wiltshire Health and Care is offering young people the opportunity to get a taste of what it’s like to work in the NHS by signing up for a work experience placement.

More than 1.3 million people work for the NHS in England, and there are more than 350 different careers to choose from.

Work experience is a great way to get insight into a career in the NHS and will often be a strong indicator as to whether or not you would be suited to a particular job.

If you do decide to take that career path, then you will probably look back on it as valuable experience and a great confidence booster.

How it works

Work experience is aimed at school students in your 10 (aged 14) and above.

Placements can be for a few days or up to a week; or longer still for some BTEC students.

These take place throughout the year.

More specific work experience can be arranged for students contemplating further and higher education.

Some useful tips

Get in contact early

Make contact about six months before you want the placement to start so we can plan things and complete the necessary paperwork.

Be flexible

We can provide a range of placements but may not be able to meet your first choice due to restrictions and capacity.

So it is really helpful if you could identify a few placement areas on your application form.

Show interest and commitment

Remember to include in your application your reasons for wanting work experience with us, show how you will make the most of the opportunity, and be a good ambassador for your school or college.

Prepare

Think about what you want to learn and the questions you want to ask.

Read all of the pre-placement literature on patient confidentiality, health and safety, infection control and dress code.

Remember that your placement will be the perfect opportunity to ask questions.

How to apply

You will need to apply at least 4-6 months in advance.

Numbers are limited, and there is an application process, so you will need to plan well ahead.

If you would like more information, please email: whc.workexperience@nhs.net