The week, held from 14-18 July, was organised to give young people from communities supported by the Trust an opportunity to learn about different roles in ELFT.
Work experience provides young people with a vital opportunity to explore different careers, build new skills and grow in confidence. It's also an important way for the Trust to inspire future talent and open pathways into health and social care, an important population health commitment for the Trust.
The week provided students with a supportive and structured experience. Alongside shadowing placements in areas such as psychology, pharmacy, communications and SCYPS (Specialist Children and Young People's Services), the students took part in a careers fair, CV writing sessions and an interactive, skills-based activity to help them prepare for future opportunities.
One Student shared how valuable the experience was;
"This placement has not only strengthened my passion for pursuing psychology as a career but has also given me a clearer understanding of the diverse paths withing this field. My time at ELFT will remain a highlight in my journey towards becoming a forensic psychologist, and I leave with a renewed sense of motivation and appreciation for this vital profession."
Edwin Ndlovu, ELFT’s Deputy Chief Executive, said;
“We know that work experience gives young people confidence, networks and opportunities to learn about different health and care careers that can inspire and shape future choices. This is a way of giving back to our local communities alongside growing a skilled and valued workforce for tomorrow.”
Barbara Britner, ELFT's Acting Chief People Officer added;
"It's great to see such strong engagement with several local schools and colleges during the week. One of the key commitments in out People Plan is to grow and develop the future workforce, including through partnerships within our local community. A big thank you to all the teams who hosted work experience students and contributed to making the week a success."
Students from local schools including Stepney All Saints School, The City Academy Hackney and Newham Collegiate Sixth Form took part. It is part of the quality improvement project to test new ways to strengthen learning about healthcare careers, with the hope to hold a similar week next year in Luton and Bedfordshire.
With 41 placements recorded so far this year, the Trust has already more than doubled last year's figure of 15 placements, demonstrating our commitment to inspiring the next generation and widening access to careers in the NHS.