Darcey Davidson’s Journey from Bury College to the NHS

Our former T Level Health graduate Darcey Davidson has found her true calling, transitioning from her T Level into a fulfilling career as a Band 2 Healthcare Support Worker at Salford Royal Hospital part of the Northern Care Alliance NHS Foundation Trust (NCA).

Initially enrolling to study forensic science, Darcey quickly realised the course wasn’t the right fit. With her passion for caring for others guiding her, she bravely switched to the T Level Health course, specialising in Supporting the Adult Nursing Team.

Darcey recently told us her story, and how her T Level helped to get her ready for a career with the NHS…

“As a 16-year-old girl entering the healthcare profession, I felt scared and unsure. But I couldn’t let my personal challenges hold me back from pursuing my dreams.”

Building her skills and confidence

The T Level programme proved transformative for Darcey. Not only did it offer her hands-on experience through placements, but it also helped her grow personally. Under the guidance of her supportive tutor, Darcey gained confidence and developed essential skills, including performing patient observations, blood sugar monitoring, and providing personal care.

“I loved my placement and never wanted it to end,” she said. “Being on the wards, I was able to see how the care profession truly works and even earned my Care Certificate. It gave me the motivation to push myself every day.”

Darcey balanced her studies with a part-time job in a dessert shop. With her newfound skills and determination, she decided it was time to pursue a role in healthcare.

A leap into a rewarding career

One early morning, Darcey applied for a Band 2 Healthcare Support Worker role at the NCA. To her delight, she received an interview invitation just days later and secured the position. Starting work on 18th September 2022, Darcey has thrived in her role on a ward dedicated to patients recovering from traumatic injuries.

Her work involves supporting patients with rehabilitation and witnessing remarkable recoveries. “I love sitting with my patients, talking to them, and seeing their families’ faces when they make even the slightest improvement. Knowing I can make a difference in someone’s day with a simple conversation is priceless.”

Gratitude and looking ahead

Darcey spoke glowingly about the T Level Health programme, saying “I’m forever thankful to my tutors and the opportunities T Levels gave me. I’m proud I didn’t give up when times got hard, and I’m excited for the future in a profession I love.”

Her message to others pursuing the career of their dreams was truly inspiring: “If you think you can’t achieve anything, don’t doubt yourself. Push yourself, and you’ll come out brighter on the other side.”

Darcey’s story shows how a T Level can help you gain the knowledge and skills to put you on the journey to a rewarding career. Bridging the gap between education and the industry.