Cronton Nursing Cadets in ‘unique’ work partnership with NHS Hospitals

Cronton Sixth Form has teamed up with Warrington and Halton Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to offer 12 students the opportunity to become Patient Support Assistants.

The students are the first in what is hoped to be a long partnership with the NHS to offer an extra dimension to their course by providing hands on training.
The students are all studying the Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma Health Studies Nursing Cadet Programme and are in their final year of the two year course. The students are on placements at the hospitals two days a week providing support on the wards.
The role involves assisting the assistant practitioners and registered nurses in general care needs of the patients; such as helping with eating and drinking as well as keeping them company and supporting activities that help the patient rest and recuperate.
Jane Birch, Vocational Training & Skills Co-ordinator at Warrington and Halton Hospitals NHS explained, “This is a unique partnership with Cronton Sixth Form and one we hope will continue for many years to come as it offers students a chance to have the hands on element of their learning, which will benefit them in their studies. The Trust also works with the first year students to prepare them for their placements as they progress into their second year of study.
“It is anticipated that this role, which is unique in the North West NHS community, will be rolled out across the region in order to provide additional support for patients and staff at all Trusts.”
Janet Dale, Head of School for Health, Care and Nursing at Cronton Sixth Form College said, “The collaboration with Warrington & Halton Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust allows us to offer our students a truly unique learning opportunity. This real working environment model enables students to achieve their qualification whilst developing their practical skills working closely with patients and hospital staff. It provides valuable experience that will help them pursue a rewarding career in a variety of nursing and other medical professions.
“This course has proven to be invaluable for students preparing for progression to university as it builds self-confidence and professionalism alongside experiencing a fantastic learning opportunity.”