At South Tyneside College, we’re proud to work in partnership with the NHS and local healthcare providers to give our T Level Health students meaningful, hands-on experience in real clinical environments. These placements not only build confidence and professional skills but also inspire our learners to take their next steps towards rewarding healthcare careers.
To celebrate T Level Awareness Week, we’re shining a spotlight on one of our amazing students — Aaliyah, a second-year T Level Health learner who has been completing her placement with the local NHS hospital.
My placement involves shadowing nurses and doctors on wards nine and three, assisting with patient care, observing wound care, and helping with admin tasks, said Aaliyah. It’s a great opportunity to see how different hospital departments work together and to learn from professionals every day.
Aaliyah says her college experience has given her the support and guidance to explore all her options in healthcare.
The career guidance at college really helped. We had guest speakers from different healthcare professions, which opened my eyes to the variety of roles available. My tutor also helped me understand the different career pathways after completing my T Level.
Through her placement, Aaliyah has been able to put her classroom learning into practice.
In my first year, a lot of the content was theoretical. Now I’m putting those theories into practice and developing practical skills. I feel much more confident and independent.
Making a real impact on the ward
Staff at the hospital have been equally impressed with Aaliyah’s enthusiasm and professionalism.
Ward Manager, Surgical Centre Inpatients at South Tyneside Hospital, said:
From the day Aaliyah started, she was keen to learn and showed real initiative. She quickly became part of the team with her can-do attitude, and she was always caring, polite and kind towards patients. Aaliyah’s time on the ward confirmed her passion for nursing — and I believe she will be an asset to any team.
Aaliyah hopes to continue her journey into nursing through an apprenticeship or a university degree in adult nursing.
My placement has confirmed that I want to be a nurse. I’ve learned so much about teamwork, communication and empathy, and I’m excited to continue my journey in healthcare.
Find out more about T Levels
T Levels are an exciting new qualification that combine classroom learning with an extended industry placement, giving students the knowledge and experience employers are looking for.
Come and see what a T Level is all about — join us at our monthly Open Nights, held on the first Tuesday of every month.
