CAREERS EVENT CONNECTS STUDENTS WITH UNIVERSITIES AND EMPLOYERS
Students at Shipley College were given the chance to explore careers in health and social care today as the College welcomed universities, employers and healthcare professionals for a special networking and progression event.
The event brought together organisations including University of Bradford, Leeds Trinity University and Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust to help students gain insight into university pathways, careers in healthcare and the skills needed to progress into the sector.
Students were able to speak directly with universities and professionals about courses, placements, apprenticeships and future career opportunities, while also taking part in practical discussions linked to real-world healthcare settings.
Tejinder Rajput from Shipley College’s Health and Social Care department said the event was designed to help students connect directly with employers and industry professionals.
She said: “It’s about connecting with employers and giving students the opportunity to collaborate with professionals and understand what the health and social care space really looks like.
“Our role is to inspire students, support them and expose them to opportunities and professionals within the industry.”
She added that Shipley College’s smaller, more supportive environment helps students thrive.
She said: “We know every single one of our students. We want to care for and support every student and understand what their career goals are. I think that’s what makes Shipley College special.”
Representatives from universities praised the confidence, ambition and preparation of Shipley College students.
Caroline Priestley, Senior Recruitment and Outreach Officer at the University of Bradford, said: “The students are always brilliant. They’re very open, engaged and willing to explore opportunities.
“Shipley College encourages students to engage with universities and find opportunities. It’s a warm and friendly place and students are really nurtured here.”
Jack Cooper, Schools and Colleges Engagement Officer at Leeds Trinity University, added: “Students from Shipley College are always engaged and keen to ask questions and find out more.
“Because it’s a smaller college, students get that extra support, which really helps prepare them for university.”
Healthcare professionals attending the event also highlighted the value of giving students hands-on experiences and practical insight into the sector.
Laura Noble from the Health Visiting Team at Bradford District Care NHS Foundation Trust spoke to students about child development, mental health and healthcare practice.
She said: “It’s really important for students to ask questions and get hands-on experience.
“Students bring transferable skills and life experience which are incredibly valuable in practice.”
Among the students attending was Health and Social Care learner Haleema Kousar, who hopes to progress into social work.
Haleema said the event had helped her better understand university routes and future career options.
She said: “I want to go into social work and speaking to the universities today has really helped me understand the different pathways available.
“The teachers at Shipley College are really honest and supportive, and they help you improve.”
Haleema also spoke about how work experience had helped shape her ambitions. As part of her placement hours, she worked with community organisations supporting carers and vulnerable residents across Bradford.
She added: “The work experience gave me an insight into what I want to do in the future and helped me understand areas like social prescribing and working with families.”
Haleema, who said her predicted grades had risen from a C to achieving A* grades in much of her work, credited both her teachers and her own determination for the improvement.
The event forms part of Shipley College’s growing programme of employer and university engagement activities designed to help students progress into higher education, apprenticeships and careers in health and social care.