As part of Colleges Week 2025, Peterborough College welcomed Andrew Pakes MP to its Health & Social Care department to see first-hand how further education is supporting the NHS and social care sector.
During the visit, Andrew met students and staff in the College’s state-of-the-art hospital training room, where learners develop practical, hands-on skills to prepare them for careers in healthcare. With the NHS workforce remaining a national priority, the College’s curriculum ensures students leave education with the skills and experience needed to fill critical roles in the sector.
Rachel Nicholls, CEO of Inspire Education Group, commented, “At Peterborough College, we ensure our curriculum is aligned with both regional and national priorities. With the NHS workforce high on the government agenda, we are proud to play a role in developing the next generation of healthcare professionals. Our courses, including T Levels, provide students with hands-on experience that meets industry standards and prepares them for real-world careers in health and social care.”
Andrew Pakes, MP for Peterborough said,
“It was fantastic to visit Peterborough College and see the next generation of NHS and social care professionals in action. The students’ passion and dedication really stood out, and it’s clear the hands-on training they’re getting will set them up for success. With our health and care services under real pressure, we need to back further education and apprenticeships to make sure young people have the skills they need—and that our communities have the workforce they rely on. Colleges like this are at the heart of that effort, and I’ll keep making the case for more support and investment.”
T Level qualifications, which include a work placement component, equip students with practical experience and skills essential for their future careers. Having completed their placements in a real-life hospital setting at Peterborough City Hospital, students at Peterborough College are now well-prepared to meet the demands of the healthcare sector with confidence.
“Using the theory they’ve learnt at College and simulating it with real patients, alongside real hospital staff is a great opportunity for T Level Health students. Giving them this experience at such a young age is really beneficial for both the students and the NHS. If they go on to do nursing at university, they already have a head start” shared Rebecca Janaway, Assessor & Trainer and Lead HCA Facilitator at North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust.
The visit formed part of Colleges Week, a national campaign that highlights the vital role of further education in shaping the future workforce.
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