Considering a career in healthcare but unsure where to start? Healthcare is a huge sector that supports hundreds of career paths, meaning there is a job role to suit every background and skill set.
Keep reading to find out why a career in healthcare can be rewarding and to learn about the different career routes to start out in the industry.
Which careers in healthcare can I choose from?
Everyone in the healthcare sector must work towards a common goal – to provide the best care for their patient. You might diagnose physical illnesses and refer for treatment. You could advise on medication, or you could deliver talking therapies. And not forgetting, you might work in a non-clinical role which makes a significant contribution to patient care.
Whichever career in healthcare you choose, you’ll certainly find opportunities in Chesterfield where you can make a difference.
What career routes are available in healthcare?
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships can offer an ideal route to your career in healthcare. It means you can earn while you learn and gain a qualification. You can complete an apprenticeship from Level 2, right up to degree level.
We spoke to apprentices from Chesterfield Royal Hospital and Peak Pharmacy, to find out why they chose the apprenticeship route.
Apprentice Town – Find Your Apprenticeship
Emmie-Mai Hunt, Level 2 Pharmacy Assistant, said: “I became an apprentice as I enjoy practical learning. After 2 years at college, studying a course completely different, I was unsure what career I wanted to pursue. However, I saw this and thought what a great way to earn money whilst learning about something I enjoy – medicine.
If you’re considering an apprenticeship in healthcare, I say go for it! There is never a dull moment. Whether this be with customers or colleagues. The number of opportunities it opens up is never ending.”
Clare Smith is a Level 6 Apprentice Diagnostic Radiographer. She said: “By undertaking an apprenticeship, I have been able to further develop my communication skills and critical thinking. I have learnt to facilitate interprofessional collaboration and share clinical judgement to ensure the best possible outcomes.”
Kari Whitaker is a Level 5 Staff Development and Apprenticeship Practitioner. She explained: “My apprenticeship has given me a solid foundation of knowledge and clinical skills, which enables me to pass this on to learners. It has also given me the experience to guide and advise experienced staff that will be supporting the new starters in their work areas.”
Not only can you work towards an apprenticeship in clinical roles, but you can also gain a qualification in a clerical role. Nathan Marriot tells us more about his level 3 apprenticeship in the video below.
Trainee Placement
Ever considered a trainee placement? A placement prepares you for employment or an apprenticeship by allowing you to take part in an education and work experience.
Sidonie Herring, Level 4 Trainee Counsellor at The Therapy and Lifestyle Clinic, said:
“I became a trainee because I wanted a complete career change. I wanted to make sure that I trained properly in this field and took the steps necessary.
The best thing about my placement is the team and support I receive. I feel like it’s a great environment to learn and grow, as well as have the freedom to develop my counselling style.
My placement offers opportunities to attend workshops to develop mental health and counselling skills, no matter how much experience you have AND provide workshops for clients which is great to be a part of. By working in the mental health sector of healthcare it’s highlighted to me how the demand for more mental health help is needed for the public. I like that I have the opportunity to contribute to this.”
Inspired by the range of careers in healthcare?
With affordable housing and great transport links, starting your career in Chesterfield is a no brainer. If you enjoyed reading what local people think about careers in the healthcare sector, please do look at the career routes on offer with Chesterfield businesses. We’d love to share your story soon.