For Joe Hepplestone, the goal has always been to work as a nurse in intensive care.
The former Stockton Riverside College student has now completed his T Level placement at the University Hospital of North Tees and is currently taking on shifts with NHS Professionals.
Joe tells us about his experience on placement.
What are your career aspirations?
My aspirations when I joined the T Level course were to work in the intensive care unit at University Hospital of North Tees. This aspiration is still my main career goal.
It has always fascinated me how intricate the care is there. My Mam has been an intensive care nurse, and now as a sister, for 20 years.
I think the T Level placement programme offered me an advancement in my knowledge and definitely helped me in my first year at university. The placement guided me and gave me transferable skills that I can use in the career that I’d like to move into.
Currently I am studying adult nursing at Teesside University and am coming to the end of the first year. I have also started on the bank and have been able to work shifts as a healthcare assistant.
Which areas have you experienced on the T Level health pathway industry work placement?
I spent time in many areas of the hospital while on my T Level industry work placement.
One area was within main theatres which allowed me to learn about sterile techniques. It opened my eyes to how many people are involved in completing a surgical procedure. From observing this it allowed me to get a head start in scrubbing up and assisting in a surgical environment.
Do you think the T Level course is a good option for further education from school?
I think that if you are looking to go into a healthcare environment that a T Level course is a great choice.
It allows you to gain a great deal of knowledge whilst observing and taking in all the processes and ways that tasks are completed.
