On Wednesday 14 October, EKC Canterbury College hosted a Health and Social Care event, bringing together hundreds of students from across Kent to explore the future of care and discover how they could make a difference in the sector.
Working alongside Canterbury Christ Church University, Skills for Care and local NHS partners, the College welcomed students for a day of inspiring talks, expert advice, networking opportunities and tours of its immersive technology facilities.
The event gave students the time to chat with industry experts creating important connections to help them on their path to a successful career in health and social care.
Judith Marsh, from the Kent and Medway Primary Care Training Hub, lead the way with an insightful speech about the future of care, highlighting the importance of innovation and compassion.
She commented: “I have worked in many roles in my career, and what that has taught me is that every experience helps you to build the skills that shape your future. Care changes lives. You must keep being curious about the different job roles available to you and make sure to ask lots of questions.”
Her words set the tone for the day, encouraging students to explore their options and remain open to the many opportunities available across the sector.
Up next, students were invited to attend a panel discussion with a variety of professionals from across the Health and Care sector. Speakers shared their career journeys, explained how they reached their current positions and offered advice to those considering their next steps.
The discussion encouraged students to ask questions about their futures. Health and Social Care student Phoebe, for example, asked about her career prospects and whether university was the best route for profession.
Gill Davies-Patrick, an occupational therapist, mentioned the value of gaining practical experience through work placements, whether at College or university. She explained that placements can act as a practical job interview, giving students the chance to demonstrate their enthusiasm, work ethic and suitability for a role. Making a positive impression could even lead to a job offer.
Many students already had an idea of what they wanted to do after College. Ellie, a Health and Social Care student hoping to become a paramedic, explained what attracts her to the profession.
She said: “I just love helping people. I would love knowing I am making a positive impact, whilst working in a job that is different every shift. Today has been a good chance to chat with workers from the NHS to learn more about what qualifications I need to become a paramedic. It has also been helpful to discover other careers that I could look into too.”
For Ellie and other students, the event offered a valuable opportunity to speak directly with professionals, ask questions and discover career options they may not have previously considered.
Later in the afternoon, students gathered to hear from a range of guest speakers, including Dr Marc Farr, who explored the vital role of technology in care. His talk offered a fresh perspective on the technical side of health and social care, highlighting how technology supports the sector in ways that are often overlooked.
Emma Tarry, from the Upcycle Project, turned the spotlight on adult social care. Her talk challenged common misconceptions about the sector, highlighting how care work goes far beyond simply offering companionship or making a cup of tea. Instead, it plays a vital role in supporting people’s independence, wellbeing and quality of life.
These sessions provided students with valuable insight into an important area of care that they may not have previously considered as a career pathway.
The day was rounded off with tours of our immersive technology suites. Visitors were invited to look around out Immersive technology suite and Simulated Hospital Ward. This gave EKC Canterbury College students the chance to show visitors around the suites and explain how these have been helping them with their learning.
Event lead Vernon Kearl, Head of Health and Social Care at EKC Canterbury College, thanked the employers, stakeholders, exhibitors and colleagues who contributed to the day. He also reflected on why events like this are so important in helping students understand the opportunities ahead of them.
Vernon finished the session with this thought-provoking statement: “The person who changes a life tomorrow, may be sitting in this room today.”
As the event came to a close, students left feeling hopeful for their future, some with new ideas of where their course may take them and others with a stronger understanding of what they need to do to reach their career goals.
At EKC Canterbury College, our expert tutors, specialist facilities and opportunities to connect with industry professionals can help you take your first steps.
Join us at our next Open Day to learn how we could help you achieve your goals. Sign up here.
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