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work experience

Work experience

Having work experience gives you an edge when applying for university courses and health care support roles.

Work experience placements can help you find out about what it’s like to work in health care and are an advantage when applying for university courses and health care support roles.

On your placement, you may be given tasks like making beds, shadowing a nurse or health care assistant, talking to patients, attending team meetings, observing drug rounds, or applying simple dressings - all with patient consent. Work placements are normally covered by an honorary contract, which sets out the expectations on both sides.

Types of placement

Year 10 work experience

These opportunities are often offered to schools by local NHS trusts and are usually organised between the school or local work placement agency and the NHS trust directly. For more information, read  or speak to your school’s careers adviser.

Apprenticeships

NHS trusts sometimes run apprenticeships in health, and this can be a great route to becoming a health care assistant. As an apprentice, you can earn money while gaining valuable training and experience in the workplace. You can find out more information on the  website.

Volunteering

The NHS and some health care charities offer volunteering opportunities, which is a great way to build your CV and gain experience. Read more about  or visit  to search for a placement.

Careers coaching 

RCN members can make an appointment with a Careers Coach

RCN members can access free, confidential, one-to-one sessions with a Career Coach.

Find out more about how and when Career Coaching could help you.

get work experience

Page last updated - 18/05/2023