Inspiring the next generation of NHS leaders at King’s

From pharmacists, dentists and operating department practitioners to security officers and health play specialists, students gained an insight into the different roles at King’s.

The event was organised as part of the King’s Young Ambassadors Programme, an initiative run by the Trust, where a group of patient ambassadors aged 9 – 11 years old from Jessop Primary school regularly visit the hospital to take part in health-related education and wellbeing sessions. Find out about previous visits here.

Among the activities, students had the opportunity to try on protective equipment worn by King’s security staff, take part in a demonstration of how to prepare a patient for a surgical procedure, and learn how to stop the spread of infection in a busy hospital ward.

Mr Kenneth Baffoe, Head of School at Jessop Primary School, said: “Too often when we think about NHS careers, doctors and nurses immediately spring to mind, but as we all discovered, there are thousands of people in different jobs at King’s, often working behind the scenes to help patients.

“Our students loved how interactive the morning was, trying out new tasks and equipment, and seeing first-hand how such an important organisation like King’s operates. Hopefully the session has shown them that there should be no barriers to what they can achieve. Today’s visit could be their first step towards becoming part of Team King’s.”

Sarah Harris, Head of Nursing for Variety Children’s Hospital at King’s, added: “It was fantastic to have the opportunity to show the different ways we help patients here at King’s. The children’s enthusiasm and curiosity made the sessions really enjoyable, and we are so grateful to teams across the hospital who took the time to demonstrate their expertise and passion for healthcare.”