Future Flintshire doctors inspired at Wrexham Maelor Hospital event

A group of would-be doctors and medical professionals attended an event designed to give them an insight into various careers within the field of medicine, and an opportunity to learn some hands-on lifesaving skills.

Eleven more able and talented (MAT) year 10 students from Argoed High School were amongst other students from Wrexham and Flintshire who took part in the Future Doctors Event at Wrexham Maelor Hospital’s Medical Education Department. 

The students listened to talks by a consultant anaesthetist, junior doctor, and student doctor who each spoke about their own experiences, what’s needed to get on to the career path as a doctor, insights into a typical working day, and what student life involves. 

A representative from Bangor University talked about the process of getting into medical school and the necessary requirements, and there were talks about the sixth form Seren programme. 

Students had the opportunity to apply their first aid and CPR training during clinical skills workshops, practising on lifelike manikins.

At the end of the event, a question and answer session was held and students were given details about further opportunities that are available after completing their GCSE studies, such as the Wrexham Medic Programme in partnership with the Seren Programme. 

The programme is run by a hospital consultant and is open to the brightest and most academically able students in years 12 and 13 across Wrexham and Flintshire.  As well as offering students invaluable insights into the world of medicine, the programme boosts students’ knowledge of medicine and prepares them for the university application process including UKCAT and medical school interviews.  

Amy Longmuir said: “It was really helpful to find out all the information about how to become a doctor, and the process of medical school. I also enjoyed learning CPR in the clinical skills workshop.”

Gemma Perrin, curriculum leader of science, organised for the students to attend the event.  She said: “This was an excellent opportunity for our students to gain an insight into what it is like to become a doctor, taking them through every stage of the process.  Each of the speakers gave an honest overview of their experiences, and further inspired our students to consider a career in medicine, which many of those who attended are already enthusiastic about pursuing.

“It is so important for students to have access to opportunities that showcase different careers, delivered in a practical and first hand manner.  As a school we are committed to encouraging our students to aim high and realise their ambitions, and this event has helped to show these students how they can achieve this.  They were all fully engaged throughout, and I have received so much positive feedback from them which is fantastic.”