In a year like no other, many of us are in awe at the dedication and resilience of those working in our wonderful NHS and care services during the Covid-19 pandemic.
They have consistently risen to the difficult challenges facing the sector and have inspired many to want to contribute in some way, from clapping for carers during lockdown to rethinking their future and considering a rewarding career as a healthcare professional.
Those wanting to make such a change could set out on a career path in health and care at University Centre Somerset.
Access to HE Diplomas in areas like Nursing and Midwifery and Health and Social Care are an ideal place to begin for adults who may have been away from education for a while and would like to prepare for the possibility of university-level study. Access courses run from September to June, allowing learners to progress on to a degree course after a year’s study.
The natural progression would be to a degree in a related subject, for example a Health and Social Care degree at University Centre Somerset. Our flexible programmes can fit around existing work and family commitments and allow learners to choose from a two-year Foundation degree, with the option to top-up with a third year, or a three-year BA (Hons) degree. Work placements are built into our programmes allowing students the opportunity to put their learning into practice and to be work-ready on completion of their degree.
Lacey is a second year BA (Hons) Health & Social Care student and says:
"Had UCS not been here, there’s no way I’d have been able to achieve a degree. I need to be close to home to look after family and for my job as a carer. Coming here has given me the chance to do that while progressing my career.
The teaching here is excellent and the facilities are second to none. We’re really lucky to have this resource locally. I feel my degree is pushing me in the right direction for the future."
Many of our graduates go on to work in managerial or supervisory roles within the NHS, residential care settings, children and adult care services or family support. Data produced by labour market analytics firm Emsi in its quarterly reports shows that employment opportunities in these areas in the south-west are on the rise and with them, the demand for qualified staff.
UCS hopes to extend its offer in health, in particular nursing, over the coming months, adding to the already established Nursing Associate Foundation degree that is open to employees from the NHS.
You get all this on the Taunton campus:
Find out more about courses and apprenticeships at UCS on our website.