While many were taking a well-deserved break during the February half-term, one of our dedicated Year 12 students was busy getting a head start on her career. We are incredibly proud to celebrate Chantelle’s successful week-long placement at the University Hospitals of Derby and Burton, specifically within the fast-paced Diagnostic Radiography department.

Stepping out of the classroom and into a busy hospital environment is no small feat.  Chantelle thrived during her time at the hospital; she didn’t just observe—she became part of the clinical rhythm.

Her experience covered the full spectrum of modern medical imaging:

• X-ray: Under the careful guidance of senior staff, she moved beyond shadowing and was able to assist in x-raying a patient, gaining firsthand experience in positioning and radiation safety.

• MRI & CT Scanning: She became familiar with the sophisticated machinery behind Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Computed Tomography, learning how these tools create detailed internal maps of the human body.

• Ultrasound: She developed a foundational understanding of sonography and how sound waves are used in real-time diagnostics.

An NHS hospital is a high-energy environment that requires composure and empathy. Chantelle felt entirely comfortable in the healthcare setting, demonstrating the professional ‘soft skills’ that are just as vital as technical knowledge in healthcare.

“This experience gave me a massive insight into how the NHS functions behind the scenes. Seeing how the team works together to provide patient care has really solidified my career goals.”

Work experience like this is invaluable. It bridges the gap between textbook theory and real-world application, providing an excellent addition to any apprenticeship/university application or CV. By exploring the various pathways within the NHS, Chantelle has returned to school with a clear vision of her future career pathways.