A residential course credited with inspiring future doctors from low-income backgrounds has returned to The James Cook University Hospital.
More than 30 students from across the UK came together at James Cook for a week-long programme in July, where they learned about the NHS, interacted with the hospital’s diverse workforce and gained an insight into the lives of doctors.
Since launching at James Cook in 2017, the programme has helped inspire the next generation of doctors, with 45% of participants progressing to medical school.
The programme is aimed at 16 to 17-year-olds, and the course offers a unique insight into life as a healthcare professional.
Throughout the week, budding doctors worked alongside experienced clinicians from a range of specialties, developing essential clinical skills and gaining first-hand experience of the realities of working in healthcare.
The programme also featured interactive sessions on paediatric resuscitation, anatomical body painting, trauma assessment, cardiac arrest management and radiology.
To give participants a competitive edge in their future medical school applications, the course included practical preparation for the admissions process. Students developed key communication skills for interviews and received advice and guidance on applying to medical school.
Many of the students who attended the sessions commended the different procedures and insights they were able to gain during the week.
Group head of medical education Louise Campbell, said: “Through our partnership with the Social Mobility Foundation, we are helping to shape the future workforce by providing valuable work experience opportunities.
A high-quality placement can be a transformative experience for students, allowing them to explore career pathways, gain confidence in their abilities, and develop vital professional skills.
“By offering these opportunities, we are empowering young people to make informed career choices and equipping them with the knowledge, experience, and confidence needed to succeed in the future.”
