Publish date: 26 July 2023
More than 20 students learned what it takes to be Allied Health Professionals as part of a week-long work experience opportunity run by West London NHS Trust.
The event took place from Monday 17 July to Friday 21 July at the Ealing Learning and Development Centre based at St Bernard’s Hospital.
As part of the week, students in Years 10 to 13 took part in classroom based activities as well as practical sessions facilitated by staff from sites including Clayponds, Lakeside and the Recovery College.
There are a total of 14 Allied Health Professionals (AHPs) roles listed by NHS England and no two roles are the same. Students met many different AHPs working in different roles, from speech and language therapists to peer support workers.
At the start of the week, many of the students were unsure about what AHPs are and what they do, but by the end of the week many had a greater understanding and even considered becoming an AHP in the future.
The work experience opportunity was led by Lead Madnick, Head of AHPs in Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services at West London NHS Trust and Claire McDonald, AHPs Education Lead.
They said: “Last week, the Trust invited students in Years 10 to13 to St Bernard’s Hospital to learn more about life as an Allied Health Professional (AHP).
“Students were given the opportunity to witness AHPs in action, both in physical and mental health settings. They gained invaluable insights, not only observing clinical sessions, but also understanding the importance of effective teamwork and different therapeutic approaches.
“I’d like to give a huge thank you to everyone who attended and helped facilitate the week.”