Access student working on the frontline

Sarah*, Access to Health Science student at Keighley College, has been working on the respiratory ward at Airedale Hospital during this pandemic.

She was inspired to pursue a career in healthcare after regularly supporting family members who worked across special needs schools and nursing homes. She initially joined Airedale Hospital working on the intermediate care ward, and got reassigned to a specific Covid-19 ward due to increased demand.

Sarah said: “Working in a hospital during this pandemic can be overwhelming; I get worried about bringing the virus home to my family and I often have a sore face and hands due to constantly wearing personal protective equipment. I was nervous at first about starting work on the Covid-19 ward; there was so much to learn as I didn’t have much knowledge of respiratory care. However, the team at the hospital were phenomenal – they offered full support and training to ensure I was safe at all times. When a patient was well enough to return home, everybody clapped which was really heart-warming.

“My Access course at Keighley College has been brilliant. The modules have been engaging and the team have been so supportive. The course has allowed me to progress to university, I have received an unconditional offer to study a dual qualification in adult and mental health nursing.”

Marie Murphy, programme manager at Keighley College, said: “We’re so proud to see Sarah working incredibly hard in a Covid-19 ward during these worrying times. Despite the ongoing crisis, she has continued to complete all her work in a timely manner and is on target to achieve fantastic results. Her positive attitude is inspirational and I’m delighted that she has achieved an unconditional university offer!”

Find out more about our Access courses here.

*Not the real name of the student as they have chosen to be anonymous.