Lilly Gray
Level 3 T-Level in Health - Supporting the Adult Nursing Team
Lilly Gray
The course is a lot more practical and it’s not all exams, you get to experience something you wouldn’t with A Levels or in school. The course makes you more prepared for the workplace and prepares you for working with patients.
How did you hear about Newcastle College? Did you attend an Open Day prior to starting at the College? If so, did you find it useful?
I had heard about the College through school and I knew it was a big college. I went to an open event where I met some of the staff and learned more about the course I’m now studying. I wanted to see the difference between A Levels and BTECs and I learned more about T-Levels by talking to the tutors too.
What made you decide to come to the college and enrol on the course you selected?
The course is a lot more practical and it’s not all exams, you get to experience something you wouldn’t with A Levels or in school. The course makes you more prepared for the workplace and prepares you for working with patients.
How would you describe the advice and support you received from college and your tutors? Have you had any support for our Central Support Team – Pastoral support?
The support has been so good, they’ve been on the ball and take matters seriously. Any issues are sorted quickly, and it helps you feel safer in the college. There are so many people to talk to for support and they always remind us that they’re there.
Do you have any tutors who have industry experience? If so, how has this helped you?
Yeah, Tyler worked in the RVI and in cancer care and Kieran worked as a community nurse. They apply their experience so we can learn what happens on a day-to-day basis.
What do you/did you enjoy most about your course?
We did a practical session for a lung and heart dissection and we got to speak to professionals and nurses from the industry. The Sim Room is one of the best parts of the course – you get to work with as if they’re real patients and practise as if you’re in a ward, preparing you for real-life work.
How do you feel that the course has/is benefitting you?
I’ve gained a lot of knowledge from studying this course and realised you can apply knowledge to other subjects. I’ve also made new friends!
Have you done any work experience or a work placement as part of your course?
I’ve got one planned for my second year of study at the Queen Elizabeth hospital in Gateshead where I’ll get the full experience working on a ward. There were a variety of work placements to choose from for second year which was good. The scrubs are all included so we’ve not had to pay for anything and it’s all organised by the College.
What would you like to do when you finish your course? Would you consider studying a degree at Newcastle College University Centre?
I want to be a paramedic but I’ve not decided what route to take to get there yet. I know I can study a Health degree at Newcastle College University Centre too, so I’d be interested in that too.
What would you say to anyone thinking of studying a course with Newcastle College?
Do it! The course is so positive and you get great support from tutors. I was surprised by the skills I’ve developed in just one year and the knowledge I’ve gained.
Top tips
1. Start revising
2. Be prepared to put the effort in.
3. Push yourself out of your comfort zone.
4. Be confident!