Health Sciences University helps allied health students prepare for future careers
Health Sciences University (HSU) welcomed healthcare professionals, employers and alumni to its Bournemouth campus on Friday 9 October for a dedicated careers event offering its final-year allied health students practical advice and insights into professional practice.
Organised by HSU’s School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, the Allied Health Professionals Careers Day gave students the opportunity to explore career pathways across dietetics, occupational therapy, osteopathy, physiotherapy, podiatry, diagnostic and therapeutic radiography, and speech and language therapy.
The event opened with a welcome from Vice-Chancellor Professor Lesley Haig and Dr Yetunde Dairo, Head of the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences.
Dr Deborah Lane, Associate Director for Allied Health Professionals & Healthcare Scientists at University Hospitals Dorset NHS Foundation Trust, delivered a keynote presentation titled Preparing the Future Healthcare Workforce: Responding to Current Challenges and the NHS 10-Year Plan. The session explored current workforce challenges and what the NHS 10-Year Plan could mean for future healthcare professionals.
A graduate panel facilitated by HSU colleague Amanda Weaver brought together alumni Jayden Jackson-Smith, Emmeline Jones, Justina Bartczak, Dan Egelstaff and Xu Cao to share their experiences of moving from university into professional practice.
Drawing on their own career journeys, the alumni discussed the value of placements in putting theory into practice, building professional networks and developing transferable skills. They encouraged students to keep an open mind about career opportunities and shared practical advice on job applications, interviews and continuing professional development.
Amanda Weaver (left) leading a graduate panel discussion with HSU alumni, sharing career experiences and advice with final-year students.
Students also took part in workshops covering interview skills, job applications and pre-preceptorship. A pre-preceptorship workshop led by HSU colleagues Gary Francis and Amanda Weaver explored how students can recognise and communicate their skills, navigate the recruitment process and prepare for their first 90 days in a professional role.
Students also had opportunities to meet employers from across the NHS, private and independent sectors to discuss potential career pathways. A dedicated careers space offered guidance from the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC), professional bodies, university staff and graduates on professional registration, standards and preparing for employment.
Students exploring career opportunities and meeting exhibitors at HSU’s Allied Health Professionals Careers Day.
Dr Yetunde Dairo said:
“Moving from university into your first professional role is a big step, and we want our students to feel prepared for it. Events like this give them the chance to ask questions, hear directly from employers and learn from people who have already made that transition.
“It was especially good to welcome back our graduates. Their experiences and advice are incredibly valuable to students who are beginning to think about their own careers.
“I’d also like to thank everyone involved in organising and delivering the day, including our colleagues across HSU and the external partners who gave their time to support our students.”
Dr Yetunde Dairo (centre), Head of HSU’s School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences, with colleagues and attendees at the Allied Health Professionals Careers Day.
The event took place ahead of Allied Health Professions (AHPs) Day on 14 October, which celebrates the contribution allied health professionals make to health and care services across the UK.
