Erin Lynott
Study Type: School Leaver Vocational
Study Location:
Subject Studied: Science
Derby College Group student Erin Lynott is hoping to secure an NHS apprenticeship when she finishes her T level science course this year.
Erin, 18, did the work experience element of her course at Royal Derby Hospital’s Clinical Measurement Department, which diagnoses and monitors patients with cardiac, neurophysiological, respiratory and gastrointestinal issues.
Erin said: “I was really pleased to be one of the three students on my course to get a placement in the department. It was good to get real-world experience and see behind the scenes in a busy hospital.
“I liked talking to the patients, and all the staff there were so friendly and welcoming to us. We were told about jobs in the department at the end of our placement, and it looks like there might be apprenticeship opportunities there in April or May.”
Erin enjoyed biology at school but didn’t know about the science T Level until she spoke with a careers adviser at a DCG open day.
She added: “I knew about BTECs but not T Levels when I left school. I like the practical side of my T Level, such as doing experiments and the work experience placement.
“It’s nice to have real-world occupational specialisms. I am definitely more suited to T Levels than A-levels, as I’m not great with exams. There are some exams on my course, but most of what we do is coursework and assignments, which is better for me.”
Erin wants to work in a hospital environment like her aunty, who is a nurse, and hopes to be offered an NHS apprenticeship when she’s completed her
I like the practical side of my T Level, such as doing experiments and the work experience placement.