Ron Dearing UTC students took part in a hands-on workshop which aims to inspire the next generation of medics and scientists.
Medical Mavericks uses real-life medical and sports science equipment to promote NHS and Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) careers at schools, colleges and events across the UK.
All Year 11 students at Ron Dearing UTC, Year 12 and 13 Biology students and Year 12 BTEC Science students took part in the workshop, enabling them to consider a range of careers from physiotherapy or becoming a doctor, to training in phlebotomy and more.
The students heard from a nurse practitioner and a medical student about their career journeys and learnt how to take blood from vessels in a false arm, practised keyhole surgery techniques on a simulator and learnt how to take blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen and lung capacity readings.
They also wore pathology goggles to simulate various eye complaints, such as cataracts, and others which demonstrated the effects of alcohol.
Ultrasound equipment was used to examine veins and muscles in the arms, neck and intestines, and the students learnt more about reflexes in knee joints.
Sarah Britchford, Science Teacher at Ron Dearing UTC, said: “The Medical Mavericks workshop has definitely generated interested in careers in medicine among our students.
“They really enjoyed using the specialist equipment and learnt so much at the 12 different stations.
“Fifty per cent of jobs in the NHS don’t require a medical degree, which is an eye-opener, and you don’t always have to go to medical school to fulfil certain roles.
“It was a fantastic workshop and has given our students lots to think about and aspire to as they consider their future careers.”
Year 11 student Muhemmed Sajid, 15, who is currently studying for his GCSEs and would like to become a doctor, said: “I’d like to specialise in general surgery or oncology.
“I like helping people and general surgery covers lots of fields. I also know a lot of people who have had cancer and I’d like to help them too.
“I learnt a lot about equipment that doctors use on a daily basis during the Medical Mavericks session. It was really interesting.”
Year 13 Biology student Meka Frank, 17, said she would like to pursue a career in medicine.
She said: “The Medical Mavericks session was very informative, interactive and fun. We were able to experience using lots of equipment, which we wouldn’t have been able to use in a lecture.
“It’s lovely that Ron Dearing UTC is opening up these opportunities to students who are interested in medicine and biology-related careers.”