During the session, students learnt about the many different roles available within health and social care and how organisations like Caring Plymouth help connect people with jobs, training and apprenticeships that suit their skills and lifestyle.

Dan shared his own career journey, which has included supporting individuals with Autism and ADHD, running a children’s home, and managing a care home for elderly residents. His experiences highlighted how diverse and rewarding the sector can be, and how the support provided can make a real difference in people’s lives.

Students were particularly interested to learn about the wide range of settings where health and social care professionals can work, including care homes, hospitals, community centres, schools, supported housing, GP surgeries and many more community-based environments.

Year 9 student Isabell commented,

“It’s great to know there are lots of different job opportunities and ways into job roles. I can’t believe he worked with a client for several years and supported them to live independently. It shows what an important job it is and how much difference care can make to someone’s life.”

Dan also emphasised that experience is key in the sector, with many opportunities to continue learning and developing skills while working. Sam reflected on this, saying,

“I like that training and learning can happen while you are working – it’s important to earn money but also keep learning.”

Leon added,

“It’s good to know there are jobs that make a difference to people’s lives and support our community.” Maddie also commented on the range of opportunities, saying she was surprised by how many careers exist and that volunteering could be a great way to gain experience before choosing a career.

Mrs Chalmers said,

“The key message from Dan’s talk was that experience is key – the more experience you gain, the more opportunities open up.”

The session provided students with valuable insight into the rewarding and varied careers available in health and social care and how they can begin exploring pathways into the sector.