Health Education England Chair meets Sheffield Hallam’s next generation of NHS workforce

Health Education England’s Chair, Sir David Behan, met healthcare students from Sheffield Hallam University last week, as part of a virtual visit to hear about their experiences of studying during the Covid 19 pandemic.

Sir David took part in an interactive roundtable discussion with a group of students and alumni, all of whom have plans to establish a career in the NHS following graduation.

As part of the visit, he also met with senior leaders from the University and College of Health, Wellbeing and Life Sciences to discuss key challenges and opportunities such as innovation in teaching delivery including digital learning, placement challenges, future needs of the NHS and its workforce, and Sheffield Hallam’s ambition as a leading institution for healthcare education delivery and partnership.

Sheffield Hallam University is one of the largest trainers of healthcare professionals in the UK, with more than 3,500 students currently enrolled in health-related courses. In April, more than 600 final-year nursing and allied health students volunteered to join the NHS workforce to support during the pandemic.

Sir David praised the efforts of the university, saying, “In the face of what is an unsettling and difficult time for us all, it’s been inspiring to see how Sheffield Hallam has risen to new and unexpected challenges since the COVID-19 outbreak began, and I’d like to express my gratitude to both the university and students for their perseverance, adaptability and commitment.

“COVID-19 presents unique challenges for training, but it has also led to a more innovative environment for students. It is essential that the education, training and placements of students are protected so we can ensure all students meet the requirements of their registration body.  By supporting this future workforce, we protect the future of the NHS, and Sheffield Hallam is rising to that challenge”.