Matron, Sarah Wallwork, recently visited Colne Valley High School (CVHS), her former high school, to inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals.

She was invited by the school as part of a workshop designed to attract more students to consider a career in nursing. The NextGen Nurse programme aims to dispel and debunk the myths and misconceptions around nursing. NHS nursing ambassadors, like Sarah, provide students with key knowledge and advice.

Sarah spoke to Year 10 Health and Social Care students to promote the power of nursing. She also explained the various ways to becoming a nurse, such as through apprenticeships: “I was delighted to share with the students the apprenticeship programmes we run at CHFT as an alternative journey into nursing, opening this opportunity to anyone.”

Sarah’s encouraging anyone to go out into our communities and “aspire to inspire.” If you are interested, you can begin by contacting career advisors in local schools and colleges. Sarah’s said: “They will snap your hand off! CVHS in particular, would love to hear from midwives and mental health nurses.

“I would encourage our AHP colleagues to get out there and promote their careers. These can often be the hidden careers that students aren’t aware of.”