Hosted by Sandwell Academy, a prestigious awards evening was held to recognize the vital role that Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust plays in the partnership between education and industry. Maxine Griffiths, the Widening Participation Manager and Apprenticeship Lead at the Trust, expressed her pride in the team’s efforts to enhance knowledge around NHS career opportunities for local students. She stated, “Having recognition from one of our local schools for this work is truly amazing. We were honored and delighted to receive the trophy at Sandwell Academy’s prestigious awards evening for our partnership with them.”
The team at the Trust has been actively promoting various entry routes for all roles, offering apprenticeships ranging from level 2 to 7. This initiative provides local students with the opportunity to gain insight into the inner workings of the NHS. With the upcoming opening of the Midland Metropolitan University Hospital, the team continues to pave the way for a skilled workforce in a new, state-of-the-art facility.
Nikki Smith, the Work Experience and School Engagement Lead, emphasized the privilege of providing local students with work experience placements at the Trust. She expressed hope that many of these students would eventually become part of the Trust’s future workforce. Karen Whitehouse, the Apprenticeship Coordinator, highlighted the upcoming second annual ‘insights into NHS careers at SWB’ event scheduled for October. This event will invite students from local schools and colleges to engage with expert panels covering various areas such as medicine, nursing, midwifery, and wider healthcare teams. Additionally, a career marketplace will be set up for students to explore different career paths within the NHS.
As the largest employer in a diverse area, the Trust recognizes its social responsibilities to support the local population, encourage them to join the workforce, boost the local economy, and elevate living standards. The commitment of Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust to nurturing talent and fostering partnerships with educational institutions like Sandwell Academy is commendable and essential for the future of healthcare in the region.
In conclusion, the collaboration between Sandwell Academy and Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust exemplifies the importance of bridging the gap between education and industry. By providing students with valuable insights and opportunities within the healthcare sector, the Trust is not only shaping the future workforce but also contributing to the overall well-being of the community. The dedication and passion of the team at the Trust are evident in their efforts to inspire and support the next generation of healthcare professionals.