Purpose-built health clinic opens for students

Oaklands College is proud to unveil a brand-new health clinic designed to provide healthcare students with hands-on experience in real-world healthcare environments.

The purpose-built centre, at its Welwyn Garden City Campus, includes an industry-standard hospital ward, a fully equipped maternity suite and modern consulting rooms, all tailored to prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals.

This new development enhances the learning experience for students studying health and social care from Level 1 through to Level 3, including the Level 3 access for those interested in studying midwifery at university, and a T Level qualification. It also supports the delivery of the newly introduced Higher Technical Qualification – HNC in healthcare professions, expanding the pathways available for learners aiming to enter or upskill in this fast-growing sector.

The opening of this new cutting-edge facility comes just weeks after the Hertfordshire further education college announced an exceptional improvement in the 2023-24 National Achievement Rates Tables (NARTs) compared to previous years, moving up a staggering

59 places, from 107th to 48th place nationally.

Andrew Slade, Principal and CEO of Oaklands College, said: “Health and Social Care remains one of the UK’s most critical and rapidly expanding industries. But with over 1.59 million people working in adult social care and a vacancy rate currently at 8.3 per cent (equivalent to more than 131,000 open roles), the demand for skilled professionals has never been higher. Projections also suggest an additional 540,000 care roles will be needed by 2040 to meet growing demand.

“The UK needs to ensure that it provides our young students with the skills to meet the demand in this sector: there’s a clear need for a trained, competent, and compassionate workforce ready to meet the complex health needs of communities, and Oaklands College intends to be at the forefront of this training.”

The new Oaklands Health Clinic will give students a unique opportunity to learn in environments that reflect real clinical settings. From simulating ward-based care to understanding the dynamics of maternity and outpatient services, students will gain invaluable practical experience that builds confidence.

“Investing in this facility means investing in our students and their futures,” said Ana Guimaraes, Vice Principal at Oaklands College. “We are committed to providing high-quality, careerfocused education that responds to the needs of the industry.”

Applications are open for September, and prospective students are encouraged to apply early. To find out more, go to: https://www.oaklands.ac.uk/oaklands-college/health-social-care/