27/06/2019 | Press releases

Special event for the doctors of tomorrow

The next generation of doctors have been given a hands-on look at what it takes to enjoy a career in medicine during a special event organised by East Suffolk and North Essex NHS Foundation Trust (ESNEFT).

A group of 48 aspiring doctors from schools across Suffolk and Essex took part in a careers day at Colchester Hospital yesterday (26 June), which aimed to give them an idea of what to expect before they begin their medical training. 

They were given the chance to try their hand at various medical skills, including suturing, basic life support, keyhole surgery and anaesthetics, as well as hearing more about applying for medical school and gaining work experience.

The students, who are all in year 10, 11 and 12, also took part in ‘speed dating’ sessions to learn more about specialties such as anaesthetics, emergency medicine, general practice and surgery.

Sarah Wilby, medical training and events officer at the ICENI Centre for Surgical Training and Research, which hosted the event, said: “We organised this day to give our next generation of doctors a valuable insight into the careers available in medicine and an idea of what to expect from the moment they apply to medical school onwards.

“Students can find it difficult to access information about medical school entry. We hope that this event has helped to break down some of those barriers while showing them just how diverse, rewarding and fascinating a career in medicine can be.”

Speakers at the event included consultant surgeon and course lead Chris Wright, who is based at Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust, Professor Mary Platt from the UEA and Dr Martin Carrier, who is head of admissions at Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.

 

Pupils from Royal Hospital School, Colchester Sixth Form, Colchester Royal Grammar School, The Gilberd School, Thomas Gainsborough School and Colchester County High School for Girls all attended.

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