8 February 2010
Pupils from Greenshaw High School in Sutton paid a visit to St Helier Hospital recently (29 January) to learn more about the working life of a matron and to tour the hospital.
Students from year 10 (age 14 - 15) came into the hospital to hear matron Tanya Fuller and staff nurses Barbara Amoah-Young and Dawn Gibbons talk about what qualifications, skills and knowledge you need to become a nurse or matron.
Tanya said: "It was lots of fun talking to the pupils. They had lots of questions and some of them were a lot harder to answer than I was expecting!
"I think it's really important to talk to young people about their futures, and to share your experiences with them so they can make an informed decision about what job might be right for them. I know that when I was their age I was already thinking about what I wanted to do, and I think this was a great opportunity to encourage them to aim for their goals."
Year 10 teacher, Nicola Hemming said: "As part of their applied science course, the students are currently doing a piece of coursework about the work place. We've been learning more about science-related professions and as part of that, we've been visiting midwives, physiotherapists and fitness instructors in the local area.
"Coming to the hospital has been a great experience for the pupils, and hearing from medical professionals first hand really helps to bring their learning to life.
"We would like to say a huge thank you to Tanya, Barbara and Dawn for giving up their time and giving us an exclusive insight into the life of a nurse or matron."
