National NHS Virtual Work experience
Applications for the free National NHS Virtual Work experience programme have now opened for 2023-2024! This programme has supported over 30,000 secondary school students obtain free work experiences last year. Virtual work experiences have been accepted by the Medical Schools and Dental Schools Council as valuable alternatives to in-person shadowing, backed by the Health Education England Discovery report on the impact of virtual work placements. This programme is brought to you by Birmingham Universities Hospitals Trust in collaboration with Medic Mentor, and it is completely free. Not only is this a reliable alternative to in-person shadowing, but it also plays a significant role in preparing students for their in-person work placements with structured teaching and opportunities to speak directly with healthcare professionals. The opportunity is open to any student across the UK from 14 years old and above. Students can apply for a placement, for free at this link: https://medicmentor.org/university-hospitals-birmingham-trust-virtual-work-experience/ Developed in collaboration with Birmingham Universities Hospitals Trust, this carefully curated 6-month medical and 4-month dental programme offers a unique insight into the medical and dental profession. The E-learning format allows students to complete their placements in their own time, whilst being able to book 15 minute 1-2-1 appointments with a doctor or medical student to discuss what they have learnt on their virtual placement (also free). Covering ethics, procedures, wider team roles, and facilitating direct conversations with doctors and dentists, this virtual experience serves as an excellent foundation for your students’ future careers. Not only does it enrich their UCAS applications, but it also strategically prepares them for in-person work experience placements. Taking part in the Virtual Work Experience will provide: Comprehensive Insights: The programme covers a range of specialities, providing a holistic understanding of medical and dental practices. Each month, a new focus area is introduced, allowing participants to delve into different aspects of the field. Flexible Participation: Tailored for students from years 10-13/S3-S6/NI10-14, the programme accommodates various schedules by being virtual. Participants have one month to complete each specialty, ensuring flexibility and ease of participation. Recognised Certification: Upon successful completion of all specialities, students will receive a certificate from Medic Mentor and UHB, validating their active participation to include in their UCAS and apprenticeships applications. This month’s focus is on Surgery or Oral Surgery, offering a first-hand look into the life of a surgeon and the intricacies of procedures such as keyhole surgery in medicine or paediatric dentistry and oral surgery for those interested in dentistry. Registering for these programmes is simple—students just need to complete the free online application form: https://airtable.com/appuQX2ouadvjQUSU/shrroljLczgdg9uLw
