DCG Success Stories

Working in a hospital operating theatre is where former Derby College Group student Emily Gilbert knew she was always meant to be. 

Emily, 35, had intended to train as a nurse in Australia when she left school but becoming a mum at 17 meant a change of plan.  

Instead, she gained valuable experience in health care while working as a carer in the community.  

After looking after her much-loved grandad in his final years, Emily enrolled on DCG’s part-time Level 2 Certificate in Preparing to Work in Adult Social Care course, and not long after enrolling, spotted a vacancy for a health care assistant role at Queen’s Hospital in Burton-upon-Trent.  

She added: “I never thought I’d get the job – there were 50 people going for it – but I think being on the college course made a massive difference to my chances of success.” 

“I was asked in my interview what I thought about surgery and I replied that I think it’s incredible – it blows my mind.”  

“That’s when they offered me my role as a theatre support worker. I also told them about my course and how it has boosted my prospects.” 

“I have ADHD which has in the past made education a struggle, but at college I found an enjoyment in learning that I’d never known before.”  

“My tutor, Julie, was amazing. If it weren’t for her, I wouldn’t be where I am now. For me going to college and getting my job wasn’t about finding a career. 

“It was about my personal journey and my resilience. My grandad, who brought me up, was such a good role model. He always told me you should follow your dreams.” 

Emily works in both the orthopaedics and obstetrics theatres and loves everything about her job.  

And, if possible, she plans to do the Operating Department Practitioner (ODP) apprenticeship next year.  

She added: “As an OPD you’re the anaesthetist’s wingman, checking the patient’s cannulas, drips etc. and making sure their airways are clear. It’s more hands on which is very much who I am.  

“When I’m in theatre watching someone having something fixed, such as a broken hip, I find it completely fascinating that one human being is doing something to make another human being better.”