On the 15th of April, we launched our first Sector Based Work Academy Programme (SWAP) with UHBW (University Hospitals Bristol & Weston) and it has been an overwhelming success!

The first two weeks covered a wide range of subjects and an insight into the various roles that are available within UHBW. The group learned how to work within a team, were introduced to the NHS Trust values, discussed equality and inclusion, and looked at the job roles that would best suit them.

At the start of Week 3, 22 learners gathered at the Education Centre in Bristol and were given interesting, fun and informative presentations by the UHBW Team. We learnt what it’s like to work in a busy hospital environment, the skills and behaviours required and the process for submitting a quality application.

Everyone fully engaged with the sessions, which resulted in some fantastic discussions, sharing of personal experiences and some amazing stories and reasons for wanting to work for UHBW!

We hope that many of the learners will go on to have a long and successful career within the NHS and we are already excited to welcome our next cohort, which begins on Monday 5th August.

We received an array of positive feedback from those who attended:

“I think the course is brilliant and is a great insight to the NHS. The information is really useful for getting a job within the NHS.”

“I loved my course. Two weeks just flown by. Our Tutor was very patient with us. I felt more confident in myself and was inspired to work for the NHS.”

“All the Tutors are a great help in ensuring you understand. Niki has been very patient with everyone. Nike Taylor has provided a brilliant course and I feel very grateful to participate. I would highly recommend this course to other adults.”

“A short and detailed course run by Niki Taylor, who delivered the course so you have a full understanding and gain confidence in yourself.”

“The course is wonderful. I have got plenty of new information. I like and really enjoyed the rapport which Teachers built up with students. Thank you for these 2 incredible weeks.”

“Five Stars, Great Job Niki!”

“It was an interesting course, I enjoyed it and the tutor was helpful as well. It also created an avenue for meeting new people and socialising.”

“The course has been a great ‘across the board’ introduction of what goes on within the NHS and the topics that become more prevalent and relevant. It was well structured, and I felt supported throughout. It has been great to switch my brain on in a new way. It’s been excellent for my mental health.”

“The course is wonderful. I have got plenty of new information. I like and really enjoyed the rapport which teachers build up with students. Thank you for these 2 incredible weeks.”

“Very friendly and good information. Niki is a very helpful Tutor, and she explains everything so well.”

“The course was fantastic! Niki was brilliant and very knowledgeable, and I am so happy to have participated in the programme.”