Gap year

[LiamS]

Just a quick question, would any here recommend applying to be a Healthcare Assistant during my gap year? I want to get into the NHS, and I was told that practical expirience in a Hospital would be a great benifit.

On the other hand it would be good to know if its a bearable job to do for a year.

Thanks!

[Fonenurse]

Hi Liam

As you say, getting some practical experience would be good. There would also then be the possibility of becoming a health care assistant and then getting sponsorship to do your training.

Is nursing what you think you would like to do? You can also apply for other assistant type jobs - occupational therapy, physio or similar.

Also have a look at these sites http://www.i-to-i.com/other/group/home.htm and http://www.madventurer.com/ who have a medical project stream. There's loads to think about for a gap year. Don't just do it because it looks good on the old CV - remeber you need to enjoy the activity too!

I would recommend writing a list of what you want to achieve in your gap year and then see how each opportunity (work, placement or trip overseas) stacks up - make sure you get the most out of it

[madwife2002, BSN, RN]

Hi,

You say you want to get into the NHS, what do you want to do? Then we can give you some more advice.

[LiamS]

Hi! thanks for your help! Its Paramedicine or Nursing.

Unfortnatly theres little related vocational Paramedicine jobs (apart from St johns but I was looking for something more practical) So thats why I was considering Healthcare assitants, as it provides a medical expirience which would help me get onto either of the courses, with the hours and constant care required. It would also (hopefully) be a great expirience.

Thanks for your time!