HSDC Havant Aspire students who wish to become medics have the opportunity to understand a bit better the realities of medicine through an interactive online platform.
Observe GP, a free interactive video platform run by the Royal College of General Practitioners and supported by the Medical Schools Council, is designed for students living in the UK aged 16 and over. It is an alternative to work experience and provides an insight into the role of a GP and the wider primary care team.
Jodie Parsons, HSDC Havant Learning Manager for Science, Maths, Computing, Geography, Geology and Sport A Levels, explains what students can learn by using this platform:
“Students get the possibility of seeing every layer of a GP surgery from different staff perspectives. This experience can add breadth and depth to a student’s UCAS personal statement and help in interviews. Students get the opportunity to contextualise every role in the NHS and understand the importance of teamwork and social interaction.”
A Level student Adora Chidolue found this experience to be incredibly valuable in helping with her university application for medicine at Churchill College, University of Cambridge,
“Due to COVID-19 lockdown restrictions I was only able to get work experience at a Multiple Sclerosis treatment centre, so Observe GP helped me gain a broader understanding of the skills required within the medical field and the subtle differences for different roles. It also helped me understand the full structure of the British health care system which made me look like a knowledgeable candidate.”
The Aspire programme provides high achieving students with specialist support alongside their study programme to help them reach their potential and go on to study at top UK universities. Click here to find out more about the programme.