Organised by Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH), Hall Cross Academy, and various health, social care, and educational organisations within the city, the ‘We Care- Into the Future’ event welcomed year eight (ages 12 to 13) students from schools across Doncaster, offering them the chance to explore hundreds of career options, with 50 different interactive stalls to visit.
The day aimed to provide local students with a realistic understanding of the rewards and challenges of working in the health and social care field, and what qualifications are needed to undertake specialist roles, particularly within the health service.
Building upon the previous successes of the ‘We Care’ event in Doncaster, this year’s edition was thoughtfully designed to provide an engaging and immersive experience. Around 500 attendees were taken through a simulated hospital corridor that depicted a patient’s complete journey – beginning with community services and moving through the emergency department, operating theatres, a hospital ward, and back following discharge.
Students then had the opportunity to engage with specialists from a range of different careers via a number of interactive stalls and booths, hosted by health professionals, showcasing examples of their work, and offering hands-on activities such as games, quizzes, and interactive models and displays.
Dr Sam Debbage, Director of Education and Research at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) said: “We are thrilled with the ongoing success of our We Care Into the Future events, and believe that these sessions will have a profound impact on inspiring and educating the next generation of health and care professionals.
“I also want to extend my sincere thanks to all the presenters, organisers, and participants who contributed to the success of Sharing How We Care Into the Future – I have no doubt that we will be back again in 2024.”
At the event was supported by representatives from Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield Hallam University, BPP University, Rotherham, Doncaster and South Humber NHS Foundation Trust, Yorkshire Ambulance Service, City of Doncaster Council, Age UK, and Opportunities Doncaster, while local MP, Nick Fletcher, also attended to show his support.
Simon Swain, Principle for Hall Cross Academy – A Foundation School in Health, said: “This event offers an incredible opportunity for our students to actively engage and expand their knowledge about a wide range of roles with the health and care industry that they may not have been previously aware of, igniting inspiration for their future career pathways. These events play a crucial role in helping our students explore their options for Key Stage 4 and beyond, enabling them to consider their career aspirations and how they can make a positive impact on their local community.”
This annual event has gained nationwide attention, inspiring other healthcare trusts to organise similar careers events and for the first time this year, DBTH has expanded this event to Bassetlaw.
