University of Southampton The Foundation degree in Health and Social Care is now well established within the University of Southampton’s range of programmes in this important sector. Graduates work across the NHS region as Associate Practitioners, carving out fascinating new careers. Others have gained leadership roles in private, independent and social care sectors, having pursued interests in unusual and innovative services across Hampshire and the Isle of Wight. Students regularly cite work based learning as their most formative experience, building confidence in working with vulnerable people, developing networks and making important relationships with future employers. Involvement in the University’s New Generation Inter Professional Learning Units, with eleven other student professionals across Southampton and Portsmouth Universities, means students engage with peers through projects using and improving skills in collaboration and teamwork. The introduction in October 2007 of a newly validated Bachelor of Science Honours degree in Health and Social Care will enable Foundation degree graduates to achieve a first degree in either one year full time or two years part time. The programme team are recruiting locally and across the country, as ambitious Foundation degree graduates realise just how many post-graduate educational and career opportunities are opening up to them. Professor Debra Humphris, Director of the Health Care Innovation Unit (HCIU), said of the students: ‘I am endlessly impressed by the motivation of our Foundation degree students. It’s a real privilege to help people learn and develop. We are delighted to see them take up the life chances the programme opens up. I look forward to meeting our new undergraduates on both programmes in October’. The programme runs successfully due to real partnerships, with educators from South Downs College in Waterlooville and Totton College as well as those in HCIU, valued mentors who support students whilst carrying out their own busy workloads and South Central Strategic Health Authority who continue to support students’ tuition fees. At graduation this July, an important event will take place alongside students’ celebrations; Lesley O’Dell, working until recently in clinical education with Southampton City Primary Care Trust and latterly with HCIU, will receive the prestigious Vice Chancellor’s Teaching Award in recognition of her energetic commitment to students and to service change. This will be a popular and well deserved recognition of a real champion of Widening Participation for health service and social care employees. |
