Hospice summer school helps students explore healthcare options

Students were given the chance to gain first-hand experience of healthcare careers at a summer school hosted by Treetops Hospice in partnership with the University of Derby.

Designed for Year 11 and Year 12 pupils and held at the hospice’s Risley site, the two-day ‘Exploring Healthcare Careers Summer School’ introduced young people to the wide range of careers available across the health and care sector.

The initiative forms part of the University of Derby’s Recognising Potential programme, which aims to raise aspirations, widen participation and help young people from all backgrounds access opportunities in healthcare.

Delivered in partnership with Treetops Hospice, the programme created learning experiences aimed at building confidence, developing practical skills and supporting informed decisions about future study and careers.

Students took part in interactive communication skills workshops, simulated patient consultations, role-play scenarios, art-based activities encompassing what matters to them most, and discussions with professionals from across the multidisciplinary healthcare team.

The event also offered students the opportunity to meet senior leaders from Treetops Hospice, learn more about a variety of career journeys and explore the pathways into healthcare professions.

Dr Runa Saha, founding dean of medicine at the University of Derby, said: “A career in healthcare is about much more than clinical knowledge – it is about compassion, communication and working together to make a difference to people’s lives.

“Through our Recognising Potential programme, we are committed to ensuring that talented young people, whatever their background, have access to the opportunities, experiences and role models that will help them realise their ambitions.”

Sharan Harris-Christensen, head of clinical quality and education at Treetops Hospice, said: “We were thrilled to welcome students to Treetops Hospice for our first Summer School in partnership with the University of Derby.

“The programme provided a valuable opportunity for participants to build confidence in compassionate conversations, gain insight into the breadth of careers available within hospice care and understand how every role contributes to making a real difference to patients and families.

“Person-centred care is at the heart of everything we do. Through this collaboration, we aim to be inspiring future healthcare professionals to recognise the profound impact they can have on the lives of others.”