medical research work experience year 12

UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health

Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health

• Work Experience for School Pupils 16-18

Work Experience for School Pupils aged 16-18 years

The GOS ICH Work Experience programme is jointly hosted by the Institute's 5 Teaching & Research Departments . Each Department contributes 2 or 3 sessions to the timetable, providing students with the opportunity to learn about a wide range of research topics and techniques. Our aim is to give students an understanding of the variety of career opportunities in research science. 

Activities range from talks and interactive sessions in the lab with researchers and PhD students to attending Departmental seminars or taking part in a Journal Club.  We organise several hands-on sessions such as looking at cells under a microscope and pipetting solutions.  As we work closely with Great Ormond Street Hospital, sessions may also include visits to clinical labs in the hospital but will not include visits to hospital wards or other clinical settings. 

Students interested in pursuing a medical career and looking for a clinical placement should visit the Great Ormond Street Hospital Work Experience webpage  and the University College London Hospitals Work Experience webpage . 

We offer 12 placements at a time and students are expected to attend the entire week.  Attendance is free and we provide visiting students with lunch each day.  You will, however, need to pay your travel costs to and from the UCL GOS Institute of Child of Health.

The next Work Experience Week is on 28th October - 1st November 2024 

How to apply.

Eligibility:

You must be

• 16 or over, having just completed your GSCEs or studying for your A-Levels
• Able to attend the whole work experience week 

We particularly encourage those from disadvantaged backgrounds to apply. Please note this is not a clinical placement. Preference will be given to those who express an interest in a science placement.

Application Process

• Applications are now closed.
• Applications will be shortlisted and placements offered to students by mid-September.
• Students placed on the waiting list will be notified by the end of September.
• Students must confirm their attendance for the full week. Any free places will be offered to students on the Waiting List.
• We are unable to reply to all applicants as we are usually oversubscribed. If you do not hear from us by the end of September, your application was unsuccessful.
• Programme of events to be circulated to students before the placement starts. 

Feedback from previous students:

 “Loved seeing all the different routes into a science career!"

"I just wanted to say thank you so much for the work experience opportunity I was given. I really enjoyed the week and found visiting all the different labs very interesting and eye-opening. I'm also grateful for all of the people involved who gave up their time to show us some of their work."   “Thank you so much for organising this brilliant and informative week! I enjoyed every minute of it and feel lucky to have gained so much knowledge and experience. I came into this unsure of what degree I wanted to take or what path I wanted to follow, ...  and it has helped to confirm my realisation that I would like to do a Biological Sciences undergraduate course.”  “Thank you so much for organising this work experience, I've found it incredibly enjoyable and informative in helping me decide what career I may like to do in the future. Also, thank you to all the speakers who took the time to give presentations, prepare PowerPoints and answer all our questions. It's been a great experience.” 

Have Questions?

Contact the GOS ICH Work Experience team at  [email protected]

The GOS ICH Christmas Lectures:

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GOS ICH Undergraduate Summer Studentships

The Child Health Research Studentship Scheme offers up to 7 bursaries for undergraduate students studying science or medicine to carry out a research project over the summer. 

In2scienceUK - Promoting Social Mobility and Diversity in STEM:

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Clinical/Medical Placements

For students interested in pursuing a medical career: Great Ormond Street Hospital

University College London Hospitals

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• Blizard Institute
• Work With Us
• Work Experience Programme

Blizard Institute Work Experience Programme (BIWEP)

The Blizard Institute Work Experience Programme welcomes year 10-12 students who are interested in studying Medicine or a Biomedical related degree at university or are considering a career in a similar field.

Our week-long programme will provide students with the exciting opportunity to gain experience in a laboratory setting and learn more about the medical research here at the Blizard Institute.

What will I be doing?

You will mainly be shadowing our PhD students and postdoctoral researchers in the centres of Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research , Genomics and Child Health , Immunobiology , Neuroscience, Surgery and Trauma , and in the Core Laboratory Facilities as per the general schedule below:

Please note that the schedule could be modified by Centre Managers at any time depending on their staff activity/priorities.

Students will be included in one of the Centre of the Cell STEM Pod shows and/or Neuron Pod workshops depending on availability. Centre of the Cell is our public engagement centre for informal science-learning.

There may be some seminars, lectures or meetings scheduled for the week that students will be encouraged to attend, if allowed.

Who can participate?

• Students in years 10-12 residing in London, United Kingdom.
• We prioritise east London-based schools, primarily students from the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, where we are based.
• A limit of two students will be able to take part in the week-long programme scheduled to run on the fourth week of each month (excluding August and December).

How to apply?

Please note that submitting an application does not automatically guarantee you a place. Students are allocated on a first come, first served basis after considering the content of applications. Priority will be given to students who attend schools based in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets.

If you are a student or school

If you wish to participate in our programme, please email your CV and a completed Blizard Institute Work Experience Form 2024 [PDF 134KB] (including your expression of interest in the personal statement section) to [email protected] , copying in your work experience representative at your school to ensure they are aware of your enquiry. Your application will only be considered if your school representative is included in your email.

If you are an agency, parent or tutor

Please note that we correspond directly with the students or school representatives only.

• Useful Resources
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Useful Resources

• Blizard Institute Health and Safety Guidance 2023 [PDF 389KB]
• Blizard Institute Work Experience Risk Assessment Form May 2024 [PDF 136KB]
• Blizard Institute Induction Form 2023 [PDF 129KB]
• Blizard Institute Work Experience Form 2024 [PDF 134KB]
• Blizard Institute Work Experience Programme Schedule 2024 [PDF 45KB]

The Blizard Institute is part of the  Whitechapel campus  of Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.

•   How to find us  
•  Download the  Whitechapel campus map

Contact address

Blizard Institute Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry Queen Mary University of London 4 Newark St London E1 2AT

• "I have gone beyond what I expected to learn. I got to do lots of practical work and learnt so much about the different Centres. I have  developed lost of practical skills such as preparing samples, using pipettes for accurate measuring and lab safety skillls. All staff were extremely nice and made sure I was looked after and enjoying the activities. I have been exposed to careers I didn't even know existed before and to further education options I hadn't considered before. I definetely would recomend this programme because I learnt so much and got to see and do things I would have never imagined. I found this week very useful as it has allowed me to clearly understand what occupation I would like to undertake in the future. I have learnt the importance of team work and communication skills. I have also gained an insight into this field of work and my confidence in working in the field of science has immensely grown." - Woodmansterne School Student
• "I actually witnessed real scientists making discoveries for their project. I am so happy and pleased that I got this opportunity. My patience has developed massively: thanks to this programme I have experienced that it is much more effective to take time to complete work so that the outcome is just as imagined. Staff are incredibly kind and hardworking. I much appreciate how they took time from their busy schedules to help us students, they definetely deserve more recognition. BIWEP is a great way for young people to find interest in science, and to help get an idea of what they want to do in future, even if unsure when they start." - Holy Family Catholic School Student
• "I got a vivid insight into the different fields of research. This allowed me to expand my knowledge and solidify my choice of career. Interacting with staff members was great. They were very friendly and informative. I would recommend this programme to students my age as it helps us understand that there are multiple careers in the science field each with significant levels of importance and prestige." - The Petchey Academy Student
• "I was not only able to obserb in the lab but participated in an impactful way. I am now aware of the multitude of roles neccesary to make all function and find the area of clinical research more appealing. I found it very pleasant as staff was more than happy to help explain any concepts or topics that I found remotely vague or confusing." - Woodhouse College Student  
• "I was so lucky to have the amazing experience of shadowing innovative individuals working at such a prestigious institute. Most notably, the day that I shadowed a doctor at the Royal London hospital was the most exciting and interesting experience of my life and had completely spurred my interest in studying medicine at university. I cannot present my gratitude to you enough for allowing me to have such an amazing experience." - St Thomas More RC School Student
• "This week was an unforgettable experience and I leant so much. It was fascinating to be able to listen to a neurogastroenterologist's journey from training as a doctor to researching the gut-brain axis. Our discussion threw interesting questions on the various treatment possibilities that would arise from this exciting new field." - St Paul’s Girls’ School Student
• "I have a much more realistic insight into what a career in my chosen field is like. After the programme I am more interested in doing an intercalated year that is more research-based.Every member of staff was really welcoming, kind and keen to explain and encouring me to ask any questions. It has been an invaluable experience for me." - The Tiffin Girls’ School Student
• "Thank you for the opportunity presented to me this past week. I would also like to thank you and your colleagues for your warm welcomes and the unforgettable experience you have all given me. I have learnt to be curious and to seize every opportunity that I can." - Bishop Challoner Catholic Federation of Schools Student  
• "I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Blizard. I am now confident my future is on the science field. The professionals I met gave me invaluable advice on what is needed for me to achieve this. Thanks for making sure that my week with you was coherent and smooth." - Woolwich Polytechnic School Student
• "Staff were exceptional and very engaging. The activities proposed were fascinating. I enjoyed a risk assessment worshop and the Centre of the Cell as innovative and fun." - Woolwich Polytechnic School Student
• "Thank you for the opportunity I had. I am so grateful as I understand the planning this took and staff being very busy. Thank you for the experience I have gained is priceless and I wish that you understand the extent of my gratitude." - Mossbourne Community Academy Student
• "I really enjoyed speaking to an undergraduate about what doing a science degree at university is like before getting to the stage of working in a lab." - The Henrietta Barnet School Student
• "Thank you for allowing me to work alongside the most amazing and helpful scientists ever. I have really benefitted from this experience as I would like to become a researcher in the near future." - Dukes Aldridge Academy Student
• "Thank you for the work experience opportunity at the Blizard Institute. It has been really helpful and I learned a lot from the staff throughout the week" - Bishop Challoner 6th Form Student
• "It was interesting to be able to see the advanced equipment in use as I would not have accees to it otherwise. I was able to see how theories learnt at school in science lessons are put into practice through research." - Newham Collegiate Sixth Form Student
• "I am extremely grateful for your help in organising my placement and to all the staff: Jan, Belen, Dr" - St Thomas More RC Comprehensive School Student
• "Thank you very much for everything, it was truly an amazing and insightful experience. I thoroughly enjoyed doing the whole programme and it has assured me that I definitely want to go into a lab-based career in the future." - Holly Alleyn’s School Student  
• "Thank you so much for the experience, and I would love to say a massive thank you to all the people that I met on the week and was able to share a part of their day with." - Holly Alleyn’s School Student    
• "Thank you very much for helping me with everything regarding the week, It was an amazing experience that I will never forget!" - St Benedicts School (Ealing) Student
• "Playing games in the Centre of the Cell pod was very informative and interactive." - Bishop Challoner Sixth Form (Year 10) Student
• "I extremely loved being able to widen my knowledge of stem cells through animals (mice)" - Havering Sixth Form College Student
• "Thank you for making our time more interesting and fun! We really appreciate it. Wish you all the best with your research!" - St Paul's Way Trust School Student
• "Enjoyed absolutely everything! Thanks for providing such helpful academic and research career advice." - London Design & Engineering UTC Student

Centre of the Cell Work Experience

Centre of the Cell is an informal science education centre located within the Blizard Institute which offers work experience for young people aged between 14 and 19. Our work experience is focused around the skills required for science communication but can also be extremely useful for anyone interested in a healthcare/STEM related career.

These week-long placements will offer plenty of activities to develop transferable skills. For example, you will be given the chance to interview a medical/dental student and/or a scientist, gaining an insight into their career while developing your communication skills. Another of our popular activities is the chance to design an online science game, developing research and presentation skills. You'll also be supporting with the delivery of our school events and learning how a science centre runs behind the scenes.

Placements take place during term time and during the school day (10am-3pm) so permission will be required from the school.

To find out more about our work experience, email [email protected] .

Please note that our work experience does not include any lab work.

Visit the Centre of the Cell website

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The Access to Queen Mary programme aims to help students become more prepared for, and successful in, higher education. Students who successfully complete the programme will not only have benefited from tailored academic and pastoral support but will benefit from a contextual offer to Queen Mary.

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Medical Research Work Experience

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Medical research is a vast field, with endless opportunities for discoveries and insights into the human body. But how exactly can you get involved within the field?

There’s one key way and that is gaining medical research work experience. This guide will help to explain what exactly research work experience is, what you learn through it and opportunities where you can get this first-hand experience of the medical research world.  

Written by Ayma Ahmed

What is medical research work experience?

When applying to medical school one key element of your preparation to gain a place should be work experience . For those who have a particular passion for research, undertaking a medical research work experience can be a brilliant way of getting introduced to the field.  

Gaining medical research work experience allows you to delve into the scientific processes that underpin medical advancements and see the full process from generating a hypothesis to data analysis and publication. There are a number of benefits to gaining research work experience including:

Benefits of Medical Research Work Experience

Understanding the foundation of medicine.

As future doctors, your clinical work will be based upon evidence gained from research. Being exposed to the process will allow you to get a better understanding of why evidence-based practice is key and the rigorous nature of the evidence that you will practice upon.

Problem-solving skills

A key part of being a doctor is being able to solve problems and adapt to any hurdles you may face, and there is no better place to learn this skill than through research. Research work experience will come with many challenges from producing experiments to tricky research papers, so getting used to these can help build those key skills of problem-solving and adaptability that you will need as a doctor.

Building up your medical school application

As I mentioned earlier, gaining medical research work experience can be an incredible way to build up your application, especially when it comes to interviews and Personal Statements. It will show that you are a proactive individual and will build a variety of skills from communication to teamwork, all of which are key in your career as a doctor.

Supportive for medical school

As medical students, many of your peers will be taking part in research projects as well as research often being integrated within your courses (for example at Imperial medical students have a dedicated module towards medical research), so getting a head-start in the medical research world can prove to be beneficial for your time at medical school.

So, as you can see, medical research work experience can be a really beneficial way of gaining insight into medicine. But how can you find these opportunities?

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Medical Research Work Experience Opportunities

There are a number of ways to find openings in medical research, such as:

Nuffield Research Placements

These are run by Nuffield themselves and are undertaken in your Year 12 summer. These are opportunities to work alongside professional scientists, engineers and researchers and get first-hand experience in the medical research world.  

MSC Summer Schools

These are summer schools which are run by the Medical Schools Councils , which can contain elements of research within. You may be able to take part in smaller-scale research projects, as well as being able to shadow people within the field. However, this will vary from summer school to summer school so it is important you check with each establishment.

Research Competitions

Many organisations run programmes where you can enter your own research, no matter how big or small. An example is the Crest Award scheme run by the British Science Association.

Directly Contacting Hospitals

Many hospitals will have research projects running, so emailing consultants or general work experience sectors of hospitals may be of help and may even provide you with opportunities to aid with current research projects.

As you can see there are many opportunities out there available for applying students to get that invaluable direct experience in medical research. While these are some pretty popular options for research opportunities, they can be extremely competitive and difficult to get into. So next, let’s think about how you can actually get into a placement like this.

How To Get Research Medical Work Experience

While there’s no sure-fire way to get a spot on one of these experiences, here are my tips for when you apply to ensure you find the best fit for you and get your place:  

What Are Your Interests?

The first port of call for finding the right placement is generally asking “what are my interests in medicine?”. If you can answer this question, your search field narrows greatly. You can have a targeted approach on who to contact.

Where To Look

You are probably asking, I know what I like, but where do I go to get this? Research is generally conducted at large-scale corporations, or rather usefully, at major universities. 

Another benefit is that medical research tends to happen where there are medical departments. You may not be applying to your local medical school, but that doesn’t mean you can’t ask for experience.  

Most researchers are more than willing to share their research as it’s their passion, and even better, they always have tasks that require more hands. And if one person doesn’t have it, then you have a faculty list with their research interests listed on university websites.

Investigate

Take the time to investigate before contacting. Much like you will do for your medical school choices , research what the professor you are contacting has done. They will inevitably ask you why you got in contact with them and what your goals are, so be able to answer this question.  

Remember, they are going to be doing this to benefit you as much as you may be helping them, and more than likely, they will be donating more time to you to explain the research and tasks before you can get on with it.

Remember to network. It’s well and good to just focus on the research and do a great job for your research professor. But, especially if they are working at the medical school you hope to be accepted to, your best bet is to form a relationship with them and their team. You don’t know who they know or how far they might sing your (hopefully) praises.  

To that, they are in a medical field at a medical school and having someone you can speak to for advice in your applications, or even get a new one-of-a-kind reference from, can be the difference between acceptance and a gap year (assuming you don’t have one planned).

So, that’s all I have to say about research work experience in medicine. I believe they can be some of the most interesting and helpful experiences available for applicants. While it may not be for everyone (many medicine applicants would rather be on the wards or shadowing a GP), the amount you can learn from these experts will put you in a great position for your Personal Statement writing and interviews.  

If you’d like to learn more about work experience, or the rest of the medicine application process, be sure to explore our library of free guides. For more comprehensive support, our Tutoring Bundles are available to offer you expert guidance through your UCAT , interviews or the whole process with our Medicine Mastery Bundle . Book a free consultation today to speak with our friendly team about how our support can benefit you!

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Careers Lab: work experience programme

Take your first step into a career in cancer research.

Our Careers Lab Work Experience Programme provides sixth form (Year 12 and Year 13) students with a week-long opportunity to explore various career paths within the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute. Aimed at those interested in gaining practical insights into different professional fields, the programme challenges preconceptions about working in science while aligning with our mission to our aim to beat cancer sooner.

We currently offer two distinct types of placement:

1) Year 12/13 Research Placement 

Engage in hands-on experiences within our cutting-edge research laboratories, delving into the world of cancer biology. Gain exposure to state-of-the-art Core Facilities, teams dedicated to developing and applying specific technologies, and learn from experts in microscopy, genomics and animal technology. While each placement is unique to its research group, expect to acquire skills and experiences such as:

• How to culture cells
• Tissue staining techniques
• Understanding the basics of microscopy and tissue compositions
• How to isolate and multiply DNA

2) Year 12/13 Operations Placement  

Explore non-scientific roles within our Operations Team, responsible for the seamless functioning of the Institute. This placement offers insights into various departments, including Finance & Grants, Human Resources, and Property Services. Our operations staff come from a range of backgrounds, and no scientific background is required for this placement. Rotations could include:

• Managing a multi-million-pound portfolio of grants
• Attracting top scientists to join our labs
• Creating a culture where science and fun intersect
• Creating and maintaining the physical environment of the Institute

Whether you’re passionate about science or seeking a non-scientific career path to enable vital cancer research, our programme opens doors to a diverse range of opportunities within the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute.

Eligibility

Applicants must be enrolled in sixth form, or equivalent, and currently in Year 12 or Year 13.

What are we looking for?

• Interest in the programme: We seek candidates who genuinely demonstrate a keen interest in the Careers Lab programme, showcasing a passion for the opportunities it presents and a clear understanding of how it aligns with their personal and professional goals.
• Intellectual curiosity: We value candidates who exhibit a strong sense of intellectual curiosity, an eagerness to explore new ideas, and a proactive approach to learning. Individuals who enjoy delving into diverse topics and consistently seek to broaden their knowledge are highly regarded.
• Perseverance: Perseverance is a key attribute we look for in candidates. We seek individuals who demonstrate resilience, determination, and the ability to navigate challenges effectively. Candidates who view setbacks as opportunities for growth and consistently strive to overcome obstacles align well with this criterion.
• Commitment to improving the lives of others: We are interested in candidates who show a genuine commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. This can manifest in various forms, such as a dedication to community service, a passion for social causes, or a desire to contribute to the well-being and advancement of individuals and communities.

Applicants are encouraged to reflect on these criteria and showcase specific examples from their experiences that highlight their alignment with these qualities.

• Application Period: 10 January 10 – 12 February 2024
• Interviews Scheduled (Virtual): February – March 2024
• Reference Check for Shortlisted Candidates: Mid-March 2024
• Final Placements Confirmation: Late April 2024
• Careers Lab Programme (In Person): 1 July – 5 July 2024

Application form:

• Complete a 5-10 minute form providing academic and personal details.
• Express why you are interested in applying for the Careers Lab programme.

Careers Lab personal statement (within the application form): Respond to the following prompts within the application form:

• In no more than 100 words, explain why you are applying for this programme.
• In no more than 100 words, describe the skills you currently possess and identify the skills you need to gain for success in your dream career.

Sixth Form College Reference: If shortlisted for an interview, we will contact a member of staff at your school or sixth form colleg e. They will be asked to provide an assessment based on the following criteria:

• Interest in the programme
• Intellectual curiosity
• Perseverance
• Commitment to improving the lives of others

Applications for 2024 have now closed. Please check back in the new year for future opportunities.

How we select

Careers Lab uses a comprehensive two-stage selection process to ensure that our placements align with our criteria:

Application Form: To be considered for a Careers Lab Work Experience placement for Year 12/13, completion of the application form in full is mandatory.

Shortlisting and Interview: Shortlisted candidates are invited to a virtual interview to assess their alignment with the four Careers Lab criteria. The brief interview will assess your motivations for applying to the programme. Alternative arrangements will be made to accommodate individuals with limited internet accessibility.

Details about the format and arrangements will be sent according to the application timeline. The interview consists of three main sections:

• Welcome and introduction
• Interview questions
• Final thoughts and answering your questions

If not called for an interview, you will receive an email confirming that your application was not successful.

Please note that we are not able to provide feedback to unsuccessful applicants.

Contact us: [email protected] with any additional queries!

Undergraduate Summer Research Placements

If you are an undergraduate student, looking to find a research placement over the summer vacation period, please visit our Summer Research Placements page.

For any other questions, please get in touch using our contact form .

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Year 12 Medical Work Experience: A Comprehensive Guide

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on Year 12 medical work experience , designed to help aspiring young doctors navigate this crucial stage of their medical journey. Whether you’re considering a young doctor programme , medical summer school , or simply seeking valuable medicine work experience , you’re in the right place. 

Table of Contents

Our expert tips and advice will give you the knowledge and tools to maximise your medicine work experience opportunities. As a future healthcare professional, gaining medicine work experience is vital for honing your skills, understanding the intricacies of the healthcare system, and building a solid foundation for your career. 

From shadowing experienced physicians to participating in hands-on clinical rotations , we’ll cover everything you need to know about medical work experience . So, let’s dive in and unlock the secrets to a successful medical work experience journey!

Types of Medical Work Experience

Young Doctor Programmes

Many hospitals and medical institutions offer young doctor programmes , which allow aspiring doctors to shadow experienced physicians, observe medical procedures, and participate in clinical rotations. These programmes provide exposure to medical specialities, hands-on learning, and mentorship opportunities . 

To find and apply for young doctor programmes, local research hospitals and medical schools, inquire about their programmes, and follow their application process. Remember to highlight your motivation, passion, and willingness to learn in your application to increase your chances of being accepted.

Medical Summer Schools

Medical summer schools are intensive educational programmes that reputable medical schools or institutions offer during the summer break. These hospital work experience programmes typically include lectures, workshops, and practical training in various medical fields, providing a comprehensive overview of the medical profession. 

Research medical summer school options, review their curriculum and application requirements, and submit a compelling application highlighting your interest in medicine, academic achievements, and extracurricular activities.

When researching medical summer school options, consider Medic Mind as your pathway to explore medicine. Medic Mind offers a comprehensive summer medical experience programme for students interested in pursuing a career in medicine. Their immersive curriculum includes lectures, workshops, and practical training, providing a comprehensive overview of the medical profession. 

Join Medic Mind to gain valuable insights, develop practical skills, and broaden your understanding of the medical field. 

Medicine Work Experience

Medicine work experience refers to any opportunity to gain practical experience in a healthcare setting, such as volunteering at a hospital, shadowing a physician, or assisting with research projects. 

These experiences can be found through networking, online resources , or contacting local hospitals, clinics, or medical professionals. Tailor your application and express your motivation to learn, contribute, and make a positive impact during your medicine work experience.

Tips for a Successful Medical Work Experience in Year 12

Preparation and planning.

Proper preparation and planning are critical to a successful hospital work experience. Research and select the right opportunities that align with your interests and goals. Organise logistics well in advance, including travel, accommodations, and necessary documents. 

Familiarise yourself with the programme’s expectations, requirements, and schedule or work experience. Be proactive and plan to make the most of your experience.

Professionalism and Etiquette

Professionalism and etiquette are essential in a hospital work experience. Dress appropriately, adhere to the dress code, and maintain good hygiene. Practise practical communication skills, including active listening, respect for authority, and confidentiality.

Be punctual and dependable, and demonstrate a positive attitude. Show professionalism in all interactions with patients, healthcare professionals, and staff.

Active Participation and Learning

Actively participate and engage in the medicine work experience to maximise your learning. Take the initiative, ask questions, and seek opportunities to observe, assist, and contribute. Take notes, review relevant literature, and reflect on your experiences. 

Seek feedback from mentors and healthcare professionals to identify areas for improvement and growth. Stay curious, open-minded, and eager to learn throughout your medicine work experience.

Challenges and Solutions in Medicine Work Experience

Despite the benefits of medical work experience, challenges may arise. Some common challenges and solutions include:

Limited Availability

Medical work experience opportunities may be competitive and limited. To increase your chances, apply to multiple programmes or opportunities, and be persistent in your efforts. 

Network with healthcare professionals, join relevant organisations or clubs and explore alternative options, such as remote or virtual experiences.

Time Management

Balancing medical work experience with other commitments, such as school or extracurricular activities, can be challenging to manage your time effectively. Create a schedule that prioritises your medicine work experience, and ensure you meet your responsibilities in other areas. 

Be realistic about your time constraints and avoid over-committing . Please communicate with your mentors or supervisors about your availability and commitments, and seek their guidance on managing your time effectively.

Emotional Challenges

Medical work experience can be emotionally challenging , as it may expose you to difficult situations, including patients in pain or distress. Developing emotional resilience and coping strategies to navigate these challenges is essential. 

Seek support from mentors, colleagues, or professional counsellors if needed. Practice self-care, such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, engaging in hobbies or activities that bring joy, and taking time off when needed.

Lack of Confidence

As a young doctor, you may need more confidence in your skills or knowledge during your medical work experience. Remember that it’s okay to ask questions, seek guidance , and make mistakes as long as you learn from them. 

Embrace a growth mindset and be willing to learn from feedback and constructive criticism. Confidence comes with hospital work experience; each opportunity is a chance to improve and grow as a medical professional.

Medic Mind’s Summer Work Experience Programme

Our 5-day medical work experience programme takes place over the summer in London. With accommodation and all meals included, this summer placement will enable you to delve into the life of a medical professional and gain hands-on experience, supported by medical experts and senior clinicians. Check out our programme details below!

Spaces are limited so book your place TODAY to avoid disappointment!

In a Nutshell

Medical work experience is crucial to a young doctor’s journey, providing invaluable opportunities for learning, growth, and professional development. From participating in medical summer schools and young doctor programs to gaining hands-on experience in real-world healthcare settings, hospital work experience equips aspiring doctors with essential skills, knowledge, and insights into the medical field.

By selecting the right opportunities, effectively managing time, overcoming challenges, and maintaining professionalism , you can make the most of your medicine work experience. Remember to prioritise your responsibilities, seek guidance, and practice self-care to navigate emotional challenges. Embrace a growth mindset, be willing to learn from mistakes, and continuously strive to improve your skills and knowledge.

With a proactive approach and a determination to excel, your medicine work experience can be a springboard towards a successful medical career. So, please make the most of this unique opportunity, and let it propel you towards your dream of becoming a skilled and compassionate healthcare professional.

Q: Can international students participate in medical work experience programmes?

Answer: International students can participate in medical work experience programmes, depending on the specific requirements and regulations of the country or institution offering the programme. Before applying, research and understanding the eligibility criteria, visa requirements, and any other restrictions are vital.

Q: Is prior medical knowledge or experience necessary for medicine work experience opportunities?

Answer: While prior medical knowledge or experience can be beneficial, it is only sometimes a requirement for medicine work experience opportunities. Some programmes may be designed for beginners or those with limited medical knowledge, while others may have specific prerequisites. It is essential to review the requirements of each opportunity and apply accordingly.

Q: How long does medical work experience usually last?

Answer: The duration of medical work experience can vary depending on the programme or opportunity. Some programs may last a few weeks, while others may span several months or even a year. It is essential to carefully review the duration of the programme and ensure it aligns with your availability and goals.

Q: What should I include in my application for medical work experience opportunities?

Answer: The application requirements for medical work experience opportunities may vary, but typically, you may need to submit a resume, a statement of purpose, reference letters, and other relevant documents. It is essential to carefully review the application guidelines and provide all the requested information in a well-organised and professional manner.

Q: How can I make my medical work experience stand out in my resume or CV?

Answer: To make your medical work experience stand out in your resume or CV, highlight your roles and responsibilities, skills acquired, and any notable achievements during your work experience. Use specific examples and quantifiable results to demonstrate your contributions and impact. It can also be helpful to tailor your resume or CV to the specific medical work experience opportunity or job you are applying for to showcase your relevant skills and experiences.

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MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology

One of the world's leading research institutes, our scientists are working to advance understanding of biological processes at the molecular level - providing the knowledge needed to solve key problems in human health.

The LMB offers a variety of work experience placements for students in Years 10 to 13 (aged 14 and above). Our placements provide hands-on experience of working in an academic research institute. Placements may be within an LMB  research group ,  scientific facility  or  support services , highlighting the variety of roles that underpin our cutting edge research.

We have partnered with  Form the Future  to offer in-person placements to underrepresented students at the LMB during the summer. Form the Future, a not-for-profit careers and employment company, was founded in 2015 to help young people find their route through education into employment and provide employers access to their future talent. Committed to each stage of young people’s development, the dedicated team provides schools, colleges and other groups with high-quality outsourced Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) services.

The deadline for 2024’s applications has passed.

Additional placements will be advertised via this webpage when they become available.

If you are an undergraduate student, you may be interested in our  Student Placement Scheme .

For any questions relating to work experience, please email  Public Engagement Team .   

Placement length

Depending which placement you apply for, the advert will tell you how long they run. Advertised work experience placements from the LMB can vary from 1-2 weeks (usually in July and August).

If selected for work experience, you will be expected to attend all days of the placement.

Food and travel expenses

For all students who applied to an advertised work experience placement via Form the Future or via our website we will cover reasonable travel expenses and offer a voucher to cover food and refreshments (approx. £5 a day) throughout their placement. This is given as a voucher which is covered in cost after spending by the LMB.

Quotes from 2023 placements

Siena – hosted by Magda Sutcliffe

“I really enjoyed the setting. LMB is so welcoming and different to anything I have ever seen. Learning to use the various equipment was great.

I plan on pursuing medicine and so seeing how the lab work can be applied to healthcare was extremely useful. It also provided the possibility of an alternative lab job in the future.”

Tolu – hosted by Magda Sutcliffe

“I really enjoyed the experience at the LMB. My highlights were going into the lab and doing hands on work instead of just observing. It emphasises the difference between small school labs and real-world labs. 

I want to study pharmacy, and this has solidified my decision as I’ve read an article that shows how molecular biology and pharmacy link and how it affects the medical industry.”

Annabelle – hosted by Millie-Jane Adcock

“The highlights of my time at the LMB were gaining new lab skills such as using pipettes and various robots. 

This experience has sparked an interest in laboratory work and careers in research because I found the work very interesting and enjoyed working in the laboratory environment.”

Summer – hosted by Lori Passmore

“I really enjoyed having a tour of the building to see all the equipment that gets used and learning how it’s used to aid research. I also really enjoyed the hands-on experience and getting to help conduct real experiments to see how methods are used and build my confidence and skills when doing practical work. 

I felt free to ask questions about university and career paths after that and I received informative, honest answers. I plan on doing a biochemistry degree at university, and this placement confirmed that this is definitely the route I want to take.”

Mariana – hosted by Lori Passmore

“Throughout this fantastic experience, I aided in a variety of experiments but my favourite has to be the CPF PAS changing an immature mRNA into a mature mRNA. Although the knowledge needed is years away in my academic career my hosts always ensured I understood, breaking down concepts and applying it to facts I learn in my current A-levels.

Originally, I worried about the work life balance in a research lab, but I learnt the lab is a community of people who consistently share knowledge and help each other. I plan to follow a more research focused life plan.”

Rami – hosted by Boglárka Anna Vámos

“Some of the highlights at the LMB was discovering how researchers used Cryo-electron microscopy to understand Alzheimer’s and even won an award, I found that quite inspiring. I also enjoyed using new tools and equipment for example centrifuges and vortex and learning a new way of pipetting I thought that was really engaging.

My time at the LMB has given me some clarification that I would like to do a health science (biomedicine) as before I wasn’t quite sure as I knew the content that would be taught but wasn’t sure what type of practical things I could be doing. I’ve never had any hands-on experience outside of school, so this was really eye opening and a unique opportunity to have.” 

Raufaeel – hosted by Andy Howe

“The highlight of my time at the LMB was learning to solder as it was a new skill.

The placement has been useful in helping me make decisions about my future because I was able to receive career advice from experts and it allowed me to understand the potential risks and benefits of each one of my ideas.”

Quotes from 2022 placements

“Working in a research-focused environment was something I found very enjoyable. I liked the emphasis on taking the time to do something right instead of making something commercially for a profit.”

“My time at the LMB was my first hands-on experience in a lab outside of school. During this time, I really enjoyed learning about and seeing what a career in science might look like. I particularly enjoyed learning about and examining  Drosophila melanogaster , as well as learning about how they could be used to aid research and test out theories in the lab. I also thoroughly enjoyed carrying out a bacterial protein expression and learning about the science behind this.”

“My time at the LMB has certainly been very helpful in guiding my decision-making over my future career, as it has given me first-hand insight into what a career in science might entail. I had a great time while I was here, and I plan to pursue a career in this field.”

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Work experience

Work experience programme, public engagement, outreach events, media coverage, outreach committee, public engagement with research seed fund, opportunities and resources for staff, other placements .

A hospital-based work experience programme is also available via the NHS Voluntary Services Office.

UNIQ Summer Schools

UNIQ helps many students from diverse backgrounds to make successful applications to the University of Oxford. 

In2science empowers students from disadvantaged backgrounds to achieve their potential and progress to research careers through high quality work placements and careers guidance.

Student feedback

‘I wanted to say thank you for giving me the opportunity to take part in the work experience programme. It was amazing to be able to talk to so many doctors and researchers and find out about their work and this week has really highlighted to me that medicine is what I would like to be doing in the future.’ 

‘The work experience programme made me consider intercalating at medical school and find an area of research I’m interested in, which I can potentially pursue as an academic doctor.’

‘The placement reaffirmed my interest in science and also made research appear more appealing and possible. It also increased my medical experience and has given me experiences I can talk about.’

'The placement has made me interested in research, as I now realise that research and clinical aspects of medicine are very interlinked and depend on each other.'

Shadow surgeons and research nurses on the wards

Discover the range of healthcare facilities

See demonstrations of innovative new technology

Learn new skills and techniques in the lab

Enjoy a fun liquid nitrogen demo

Discuss and take part in current research

Carry out practical work with our scientists

Spend valuable time in the lab

Nds work experience programme for students aged 16 or over.

The Nuffield Department of Surgical Sciences (NDS) at the University of Oxford provides a limited number of work experience placements for students aged 16 years old or over. We offer 12 placements over two weeks (six students per week) in July of every year.

The five-day programme is designed to offer students valuable experience in science and medicine, and will include time in the lab, the opportunity to shadow clinicians and research nurses, and a careers talk and feedback session.

During the week, students will take part in hands-on activities within different research groups in order to:

• Build knowledge and basic lab skills and techniques;
• Gain an understanding of how academic research and clinical trials are conducted;
• Experience the range of research areas and professions within NDS.

Previous NDS Work Experience Programmes have included:

• An introduction to organ transplant, which involved learning about the impact of different perfusion devices in preserving organs
• A demonstration of the High Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU)
• Shadowing surgeons and research nurses on the urology ward
• Carrying out practical work with scientists from the Transplantation Research and Immunology Group (TRIG)
• A tour of the hospital, which involved visiting the wards and talking to patients
• An introduction to global surgery
• Meeting the Head of Department, Professor Freddie Hamdy
• Carrying out a chocolate trial in the Surgical Intervention Trials Unit (SITU)

NDS Work Experience Programme 2023

Read about the 2023 NDS Work Experience Programme

NDS WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAMME 2022

Read about the 2022 NDS Work Experience Programme

NDS Virtual Work Experience Programme 2020 and 2021

Due to the COVID-19 situation, we were not able to offer our usual on-site programme. However, we were pleased that we were able to provide an alternative programme online.

Read about the 2020 NDS Virtual Work Experience Programme

Read about the 2021 NDS and NDORMS Virtual Work Experience Programme

NDS WORK EXPERIENCE PROGRAMME 2024

The work experience dates for 2024 were:

Week 1: 8-12  July 

Week 2:  15-19 July

Students attended for one of the two weeks listed above.    

Applications for the 2025 NDS Work Experience Programme will open in November 2024.

Have you thought of a career in medical research?

We are hosting a series of online talks/conversations with scientists from NDS, NDORMS and other University of Oxford Medical Science departments for Y12 students. These will be a mix of information about both the scientists' careers and their research work with plenty of time for Q&As on either.

‘I really enjoyed the ability to see a range of areas of the hospital from clinical exposure to trying out research for ourselves.’

‘It was a great week and I learnt a lot. I especially enjoyed meeting so many different doctors and scientists.’

‘I found the tour of the hospital and the time spent in clinics the most useful, as it involved visiting the wards and talking to patients, which was my first patient contact. It was interesting to hear how the doctors spoke to patients one-on-one when having to deliver potentially devastating news.’

‘I really enjoyed the session to do with the HIFU research. It was really interesting and I may use this for a research project of my own.’

‘I really enjoyed the hands-on approach to the work experience and the openness which let me feel comfortable enough to ask questions. I loved the range of areas we got involved in. All parts we visited were extremely interesting and I will feel more inclined to follow the NDS research in the future.’

‘It has motivated me to read up more about clinical trials and ongoing research which has further inspired me to pursue a career in clinical research. It has shown me how varied a career in science is and how many different fields you could go into.’

'It was a good variety of experience, all was presented well, and was all very interesting. I particularly enjoyed shadowing doctors and nurses and seeing the HIFU machine.'

‘The most useful part for me was the time spent in the lab, as it showed what the life of a research scientist was like. The most interesting bit though was being in the clinic with patients, seeing the patient-doctor interactions and the tour by the vascular surgeon.’

‘I really enjoyed the morning we spent in the labs culturing CHO: CD154 cells and discussing current research that was taking place there.’

Faculty of Life Sciences

Work experience placements.

Thank you for your interest in work experience at the University of Bristol. The deadline for WEX applications has now passed and the form has now closed for all 2024 programmes. 

Please complete this  expression of interest form  if you are interesting to knowing when applications open again for the 2025 programmes so we can send you an email around Oct time.   

If you have any questions, please contact:  [email protected]

Get in touch!

For all the latest events and information, sign up to our termly Schools and Colleges newsletter , use the Teacher link or Student link or contact the Faculty Outreach mailbox at: [email protected]

Year 10 work experience

Click heading below for detailed year 10 programme information for 2024: 

1 - Being a Technician (NEW) - STEAM technicians make it happen

Technicians make it happen - Dates: 1 st  - 5 th  July 2024.

Are you creative or do you enjoy problem solving? If so, join us as we showcase the exciting and important roles technicians play right across the University of Bristol. Explore with real-life Technicians the many different paths available which may lead into a technical career. What type of activities are Technicians carrying out, what does their working day look like, what does a technical career look like?

Through a variety of hands-on practical sessions such as histology, tissue culture, earthquake structural resilience testing, soil and water analysis or the tour of anatomy, you will see just how many different technical roles exist and learn which technician you are. Activities will vary but will cover all areas from Science and Engineering, Health and Life Sciences and the Arts (STEAM) . For instance, what goes on in our specialist research and teaching facilities, what are 3D printers and laser cutters used for , how are ideas turned into real life items such as underwater cameras , how do owls and skulls fit in, what is it like to complete a technical apprenticeship, what does music and audio engineering involve?

Watch what Technical Apprenticeships at the University of Bristol are like on YouTube.

2 - Biochemistry/Cellular Medicine - Cells and molecules

3 - biological sciences - plants, animals and technical, animal minds: evolution and behaviour:.

We often think about animal diversity in terms of physical traits like size and colour. But the diversity of animal behaviour is just as striking and poses unique challenges to document, understand and explain. So how do scientists understand why animals behave the way they do? And how are these behaviours produced? We’ll take you on a tour of how biologists study evolution, then introduce how we can approach complex traits such as behaviour, with hands on practical sessions. This will include practical work ranging from analysing how neurons and brains function through to investigating the social networks of dolphins.

Biological Sciences - Green Planet

The history of life on earth has been shaped in large part by the evolution of plants, and now the future of our climate depends on preserving diverse forest ecosystems. We’ll introduce you to the amazing diversity of plants, how they develop and work, and their importance in shaping our climate. We’ll also consider how human activity is affecting natural forest dynamics and how this will impact our efforts to prevent climate change. This will include practical work ranging from plant development through to ecosystem structure and understanding climate modelling.

Biological Sciences Technical – Life in the Lab

All too often people have the misconception that universities are just about students and lecturers.  But what about the hundreds of support staff who keep their Schools ticking along.  Based in the Biological Sciences teaching laboratories, you will experience the skills required, and the diversity involved in working in a busy laboratory environment alongside the lab technicians who work there.  Activities will vary from year to year but are likely to include microscope skills; media/reagent preparation; working aseptically; basic equipment servicing; field collection techniques; plant propagation; aquarium duties; assisting in outreach activities and electron microscope work.  

4 - Earth Sciences - Human and Earth evolution, dinosaurs and volcanoes

Earth Sciences is the nexus of many STEM subjects, and we will use physics, chemistry, biology and maths skills to answer big societal or environmental questions. We will work in a chemistry lab, use geophysics equipment, look at volcanic hazards, talk about ocean acidification, explore evolution, and/or look at ore samples to think about natural resources. Activities include lectures, laboratory exercises and, usually, a local fieldtrip. Participants will also learn essential report writing and presentation skills and have the opportunity to meet current Earth Sciences students and staff.

Read more about work experience in Earth Sciences  

Watch what Earth Sciences work experience is really like on YouTube  

5 - Engineering

• Do you want to make a difference in the world?  
• Are you interested in technology and how it will affect our future?  
• Are you thinking about studying A-level Mathematics after your GCSEs?  

To find out how you can apply your creative problem-solving skills to address some of the critical issues humanity faces, join us for a week of hands-on workshops and activities using mathematics, computing, and engineering skills.  

Throughout the week you will gain an insight into subjects taught in the faculty of Engineering alongside developing important employability skills like communication and teamwork; as well as hearing first-hand from our students, alumni and industry partners about life at university and the careers beyond.  

Read more about work experience in Engineering   

6 - Physics and Maths

Year 12 work experience.

Click headings below for detailed year 12 programme information for 2024

1 - Biological Sciences - Research and technical

Nematode research project -  24th - 28th june 2024 - 20 places.

We are really excited to have young, talented, future scientist come to try their hand at some molecular and ecology techniques and help develop their science knowledge and experience.

This will be an exciting week where you can generate real scientific data on the diversity of nematodes in Bristol.  You will all get the chance to sample for nematode, extract their DNA, amplify that DNA by PCR and then read the DNA sequence to find out which species it belongs to. You will get to do all the techniques involved yourselves so you will get genuine first hand research experience.

Life in the Lab technical -  24th – 28th June or 1st - 5th July or 8th – 12th July - two places

2 - human sciences - physiology, pharmacology, neuroscience, psychology & cellular medicine, dates -  17th -21st june 2024 - 25 places.

Join us for an exciting week where you will gain an insight into the different Life Science subject areas and understand what different skills and knowledge they require in each subject area.  You will be participating in interactive, hands-on practical’s in all subject areas such as biochemistry, biological sciences, psychology, cellular medicine, pharmacology, physiology and neuroscience.

You will visit some active world-renowned research lab where academics are working on many different research areas and undertake scientific sessions such as electron microscopy and the Human Patient Simulator. You will also spend two days working on a collaborative, small group research project and develop key employability skills such as data collection and analysis and problem solving.  

3 – Medicine

Dates:  1st - 5th or 8th - 12th april 2024 - four places.

Get some work experience in a real medical setting and find out what being doctor is really like!  You will have clinical days focussing on medicine and surgery as well as hands-on sessions with practising clinicians and medical students.  This WEX week focuses on Cardiothoracic Surgeons who specialise in operations on the heart and lungs, from open heart surgery on the coronary arteries and valves, to removal of lobes of the lung for treatment of cancer. You’ll follow patients on their journey through their treatment; sitting-in on outpatient clinics, observing assessment of patients before and after their surgery and finally trying out your own surgical skills in our hands-on workshop. This will  cover skills such as suturing, knot tying and even dissection!

Alongside this placement, you’ll also receive a virtual study guide with additional resources, revision tools and FAQs to help you get the most from your experience.     You can gain an insight into HE application and selection process and what skills they are looking for.

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Get a feel for your future career with an informal placement in medicine or administration

Since relaunching our medical work experience programme in 2022, we have hosted around 1,500 students virtually and 500 students face-to-face. The aim of the programme is to enable young people considering a career in medicine to learn more about what this might involve so that they can make an informed decision about whether this is the right path for them.

Criteria for the medical work experience programme:

• Students who are considering applying to medical school
• Must be aged 16 to 18
• Must be in full-time education and studying at least two science A-levels including chemistry (an entry requirement for most medical schools)
• We ensure access to the programme is fair, including requests from members of our local community and referrals from staff. 

You may wish to consider alternative forms of work experience suggested in the Work Experience Guidelines for Applicants to Medicine produced by the Medical Schools Council.

Annual virtual medical work experience programme

This programme has run since 2022 with excellent feedback, and has been expanded for this academic year to include webinars on interview preparation, the University clinical aptitude test (UCAT) commonly used by medical schools’ admissions teams, and University and College Admissions Service (UCAS) form completion. The main summer programme includes clinical sessions, interactive simulations, guidance on how to apply for medical school and ‘tell it like it is’ testimonials from medical students and junior doctors. There is a high level of participation and reflection which helps with interview preparation as well as deciding on/against a career in medicine. The virtual programme works alongside face-to-face work experience and is aimed at students who have just completed their GCSEs. 

Summer virtual work experience programme

The four-day ‘Summer virtual work experience programme’ will take place from Monday 24 June to Thursday 27 June 2024. It is aimed at students aged 16 to 18 (Year 11+) in full-time education who want to know more about a career in medicine or other healthcare professions, to help them make informed choices about their options.  Monday 24 to Wednesday 26 June (09.30 – 12.30) is focused on applications to medicine and Thursday 27 June (13.00 – 15.00) will focus on careers in other healthcare professions including: nursing, midwifery, allied health professions, and medical physics. Students are welcome to attend the first three days, the final day or all four days of the programme.  The virtual live event provides students with:

• An opportunity to engage in interactive sessions with a wide group of doctors, clinical educators and medical stud
• A safe space to think critically and creatively about the challenges they may face along the way, including: getting into medical school; and in the early days as a junior doctor working in the fast paced and complex setting that is the NHS
• Unbiased information on the process of applying for medicine, including how to prepare for the UCAS form, UCAT exams and interviews
• A chance to consider career opportunities, ask questions and reflect on clinical case studies.

A previous work experience student shared with us, “It was a great way to explore other sections in the medical field and it was very informative. It explained parts that are often overlooked such as doctor patient interactions and doctors’ wellbeing”. 

Register for our virtual work experience programme . 

On site work experience 

On-site work experience is currently paused while we review our work experience framework. We are not currently accepting applications directly from students.  Please sign up to our mailing list to be notified of any future opportunities at the Trust.

Advice and support 

If you have any questions about medical work experience, contact our Medical education department by emailing [email protected] .  If you have any questions about work experience in other healthcare professions, contact the work experience team by emailing [email protected] .   

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• Last updated 28 May 2024

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Our activities for post 16 school and college pupils

Our activities for Year 12 and 13 pupils aim to help them to explore higher education and careers in biomedical science and healthcare. Our Pathways to Birmingham programmes use specific criteria to recruit priority students who will benefit most from our activities - please check the criteria to see whether you are eligible to apply. 

Year 12-13 Masterclasses

Our popular Masterclasses programme provides school pupils in Years 8-13 with fun, engaging and interactive insights into what it's like to study at a selective university.

To keep up to date, please visit the dedicated website: Masterclasses

Year 10-13 Dr.eam University Applications Conferences

Dr.eam is our flagship series of FREE events for state school students eager to gain an insight into healthcare careers and prepare a competitive Medicine and Dentistry application.

We run four conferences for state school students designed and delivered annually by our dedicated team of current healthcare students -- Dr.eam Senior, Dr.eam Junior, Dr.eam Big and Dr.eam Dentistry. Each conference is aimed at a particular age-group and offers insights relevant to their stage of secondary education. 

In addition, Dr.eam Medicine is a free course spanning several weeks delivered by current medical students designed to help students prepare a competitive application for Medicine and provide a real insight into the career.

For more information take a look at the  BWAMS  site.

Year 12 Work Experience

Within the College of Medicine and Health we are able to offer placements in biomedical research and professional services.

Students who wish to undertake a placement within the College are required to organise the placement directly with a placement host. To help with identifying a suitable placement host, you may wish to contact our programme inboxes via our Contact page .

We would advise students who are interested in healthcare (including medicine) that work experience in an NHS environment would be more relevant and appropriate than a placement in the College of Medicine and Health. Alternatively, work experience doing something that involves working with the public, for example volunteering/working at a retirement home/village, in a charity shop, or any other community organisation will be an excellent way to gain the skills required by healthcare professions and will give you an excellent opportunity to develop your communication skills. It is important that you gain an understanding of the work and challenges faced by healthcare staff, and we have put together numerous resources to help you get started.

Visit the work experience site

Year 12 and 13 Pathways to Birmingham

Our Pathways to Birmingham programmes offer Year 12 and 13 students an insight into higher education and professional career routes, and support students throughout the university application process.

Students who successfully complete a Pathways to Birmingham programme and apply to the University of Birmingham will receive special consideration from admissions tutors. If their application is successful, they will receive two offers from the University of Birmingham - the standard offer and a Pathways to Birmingham offer. The Pathways to Birmingham offer is typically two grades below the standard offer, as advertised in the prospectus. Students may also be eligible to receive the Pathways to Birmingham financial support. Visit the dedicated Pathways to Birmingham site for more information.

Pathways to Birmingham 

Year 12 National Access Summer School

The National Access Summer School (NASS) is a four day residential, designed to introduce Year 12 students from across England and Wales, to university life and higher education. 

  National Access Summer Schools  

Medicine Virtual Work Experience

Are you interested in gaining work experience in a hospital setting?

The University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton are pleased to offer students in Year 12 the opportunity to apply for LIVE virtual work experience delivered through Microsoft Teams. This project is aimed at students who are interested in studying Medicine. It is a very popular programme so please ensure you check the eligibility criteria before you apply.

• currently in Year 12 or first year of college/lower sixth
• interested in studying medicine
• currently studying A Level Biology
• living in the UK

This programme is open to all students based in the UK however there are places set aside for students who meet 2 or more widening participation criteria.

A typical timetable usually includes:

• operating theatre
• outpatient clinics
• multi disciplinary meeting
• opportunities to speak to current medical students
• apprenticeship opportunities
• practice taking a patient history
• opportunities to speak with a variety of clinicians representing Pharmacology, Health Sciences, Histopathology, Cardiac Physiology and more.

As this is a live programme, it is always subject to change depending on the day-to-day happenings within the hospital.

We expect students to treat this experience like a face-to-face work experience placement and students who are late or fail to attend sessions will be removed from the programme. Please ensure you are available for all days before you apply.

Usually, the programme is delivered online between 9am and 4pm.

The application form link for our work experience dates are below. Please note the opening and closing date for these applications.

The dates for 2024/25 are now confirmed as:

28 and 29 August 2024 (applications open 17 June and closes 1 July 2024) Apply when open

29 and 30 October 2024

19 and 20 February 2025

27 and 28 August 2025

Hear from some of our previous students:

Throughout the work experience I was aware of the challenges facing doctors when working long hours and facing stressful situations. But speaking to the doctors and hearing them overcoming these obstacles, really inspired me. I understand that a career in medicine will not be easy but after my work experience, I am even more determined and motivated to pursue a career in this rewarding field.

The outpatient clinic session was a great way to see the doctor-patient interactions since it made me feel like I was there with the patients. During those virtual career experience days, I met many different healthcare professionals who were highly inspirational to me since they gave me a feel of all the various careers in healthcare. Meeting all those professionals made me realise that I shouldn't limit myself to only one job and encouraged me to research more about the different career paths.

Science in Health Work Experience

• Calendar June, July
• Clock outline More than one day

Successful year 12 applicants have the opportunity to participate in laboratory-based work experience and will be given an extended taste of the research environment within the School of Medicine.

Pupils get to experience first-hand a range of cutting edge technologies, working in trios with a number of different investigators and their research groups.

These include:

• molecular biology
• flow cytometry
• DNA sequencing
• egg microinjection
• mass spectrometry
• X-ray crystallography
• pharmacology
• cellular immunology.

Pupils learn the important place animal experimentation has in basic biomedical research and in the development of new medical treatments. Pupils also get to meet and spend time with PhD students and post-doctoral fellows, many of whom are in the early stages of their career.

The scheme runs for a four-week period in the months of June and July. Acceptance onto this work experience scheme is competitive. The application form is available to download on our website . The annual closing date for the scheme is 31 March.

Find out more

For more information about the activity, please visit our website .

About the organiser

This activity is organised by Engagement team, School of Medicine. Contact Karen Edwards at [email protected] or +44 (0)2920 742104 for more details.

How to book

You can download an application form on our website. The annual closing date for the scheme is 31 March. If you have any questions please get in touch.

Email [email protected]

Ticket This activity is free

• School of Medicine, Main Hospital Building
• University Hospital of Wales
• Tick Key stage five - ages 16-18, years 12-13

Curriculum themes

• Tick Health and wellbeing
• Tick Science and technology
• Tick Life sciences
• Tick Extracurricular

Activity type

• Tick Work experience
• Tick Careers and employability
• Tick Engagement with our research
• Tick Extracurricular or independent learning
• Tick Promoting higher education
• Tick Supporting curriculum themes
• Tick Widening university participation

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• Schools Outreach
• Be inspired
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Year 12 Work Experience Programme

This programme will give you an insight into the exciting world of research at Imperial College. 

At a glance

• Applications for 2024/2025 will open in January 2025
• Non-residential
• For year 12 students
• Eligibility criteria apply

About Work Experience Programme

The work experience programme is designed to give students an insight into life as a researcher and other careers in higher education. Students will experience working life, from the daily commute to managing their time and navigating a professional environment, all whilst gaining a fantastic insight into the exciting world of research at Imperial. In 2024, the following departments will take part:

• Bioengineering
• Grantham Institute for Climate Change and the Environment
• Mathematics
• Chemical Engineering
• National Heart and Lung Institute (NHLI)

Applications for the Work Experience Programme closed on 6 March 2024. Applications will reopen in January 2025.

What to expect

During the five day programme you will get an insight into research being conducted within your chosen department and academic careers associated to this field of study. The programme will attempt to simulate typical working life. You will be expected to commute to and from campus each day, have lunch with your peers and meet deadlines. You will also have access to research and teaching laboratories, workshops and specialist technical suites whilst in your department. 

Please note that each department runs their own timetable and the content of each stream varies. 

As well as experiencing the world of academic research, students will also be given talks relevant to applying to university covering topics such as writing effective personal statements and interview skills.  You will be supported by a student ambassador throughout your time on the programme. Our ambassadors will help you navigate the campus, provide support during tasks and be able to answer your questions about university life.

At the end of the week there will be an academic-style conference where students will work in small groups to present a poster and short oral presentation about their time on the programme to their peers, leaders and invited guests.

This summer school is fully funded (free to successful applicants), which includes all course fees, materials as well as lunch.  Travel is not included, and it is expected that most participants will live in or near London (or have family in London they can stay with for the duration of the programme). However we may be able to offer successful applicants  financial assistance for their travel. 

Year 12 Work Experience promo

"I would 100% recommend the programme to anyone considering applying, because you gain a lot of advice from both people who have been through the admissions process recently and the admissions tutors themselves and you learn more about your subject in a more interactive way than you would at school." — Siyani, year 12 student, Work Experience Programme 2020 (life sciences stream)

Applicant information

Eligibility criteria.

To apply for the Y12 Work Experience Programme, you must be:

• in Year 12 at the time of application,
• able to travel to and from Imperial College London each day

This outreach programme is funded by Imperial College London and aims to support state school students from backgrounds under-represented at university and Imperial. We use the criteria below to assess who is eligible to participate. The more criteria you meet, the more likely your application will be successful.

We recommend that you use our  eligibility checker tool   to see if you are eligible to apply.

 We will prioritise your application if:

• You have been in care
• You live independently (estranged), meaning you no longer have the support of your family due to a breakdown in the relationship which has led to ceased contact

 We will also assess whether:

• You are a  young carer  and have caring responsibilities for a close relative with a disability, long-term illness, mental health condition, or drug or alcohol problem that is a significant demand on your time
• Your family income is below £50,000 each year
• You are eligible for free school meals and/or pupil premium
• Your parents/guardians did not attend university
• You live in a neighbourhood with low overall progression rates to higher education ( POLAR4  Quintile 1 or 2 areas) or high levels of deprivation ( IMD  Quintile 1 areas)
• Your school has a high percentage of students receiving free school meals
• Your school has below average attainment

Academic requirements

To be eligible for this programme, you should: 

• Expect to study a science, technology, engineering or maths subject at university
• Have achieved a minimum of eight GCSEs with at least five at grades 7-9, including maths and sciences
• Have achieved a minimum of grade 5 in GCSE English Language

Please note that there are specific A-level (or equivalent) subject requirements for each department. For 2024 these are as follows:

• To apply for Bioengineering you need to be studying Maths and either Chemistry or Physics.
• To apply for Grantham Institute for Climate Change and the Environment you need to be studying Maths and one of the following Biology, Chemistry, Geography, Geology, Maths or Physics.
• To apply for Materials you need to be studying Maths and either Chemistry or Physics.
• To apply for Mathematics you need to be studying Maths and Further Maths.
• To apply for Physics you need to be studying Physics and Maths.
• To apply for Chemical Engineering you need to be studying Chemistry and Maths.
• To apply for NHLI you need to be studying Biology and either Chemistry, Maths or Physics.

How to apply

Applications for summer 2024 closed on 6 March 2024. Late applications cannot be considered. We will release decisions on 3 May.

Applications are made through Aspire, our online application system. A link to Aspire will be added to this webpage once applications are open.

Setting up your account You must create an account with Aspire before you can complete your application.

• If you have applied to an Imperial Outreach programme in the past, you can use your existing account. There is a forgotten password feature on the Aspire login page.
• If this is your first application to one of our programmes, we recommend you use a personal email address rather than a school email address when creating your account. Security settings in some school email servers will prevent you from receiving emails from Aspire.

Completing your application Once you are logged in you will need to start a new application. As part of the application form you will need to tell us about your school, the subjects you are currently studying and the course(s) you plan to study post-16. Although the form will force you to include English, Maths and Science for Key Stage 4 (GCSE or equivalent) and ask you if you are planning on studying specific STEM subjects post-16, you do need to tell us about all the subjects you are studying at school. Please use the 'Other subjects' section to add this information.

Please take care to ensure you select the correct programme when using the drop-down options. Some of our programmes have similar names, so it is important to double-check.

You will be asked questions relating to the eligibility criteria listed above. Where possible, please try to have this information to hand before you apply. You will also be asked to write a short personal statement. This gives you the chance to tell us more about why you are applying for this programme and why you think you would be suitable.

As part of the application process, we will seek references from a parent/guardian and a teacher at your current school. Please speak to the individuals you would like to provide these references in advance, so you can check you have the correct email address and contact numbers for them and that they are happy to support your application.

References Once you have successfully submitted your application, we will email your parent/guardian and teacher referees. They will be sent a personalised link to Aspire, where they will provide information to support your application.

The reference forms ask similar questions about the eligibility criteria and include the opportunity to provide a supporting statement. These statements can be used to let us know about other challenges you may have faced and/or what you might get out of participating in the programme. Teachers will also be asked to verify the subject/grade information you provided in your application.

Decisions We will release decisions via email on 3 May 2024. If you are offered a place on the programme, or on the waitlist, you will have a limited amount of time to accept this offer. Successful applicants will receive details on the next steps.

For information about the application process, please see our  application FAQs .

For more information, please see our  Outreach Programme FAQs .

If your query is not answered in the FAQs, please email us via  [email protected]  or phone +44 (0) 20 7594 3575.

Want to stay up to date with Imperial outreach events? Click on the links below to follow us on our social media sites and follow the hashtag, #icoutreach

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• Studying medicine
• How to apply to medical school in the UK
• Work experience

For more information about applying to medical school in the UK, visit our dedicated applicant website,  www.studyinghealthcare.ac.uk .

Why is work experience needed?

Medical schools require applicants to have an understanding of what a career in medicine involves. It is therefore essential that applicants gain people-focused experience of providing care or service before submitting their application.

There are two basic types of experience that applicants can have:

• Working with other people in a caring or service role, and in particular with people who are ill, disabled or disadvantaged. (Strongly recommended)
• Direct observation of healthcare.

It is important to remember that work experience can take many forms. It can be a voluntary opportunity or a paid job. While shadowing a doctor can be useful, medical schools recognise that this is not attainable for everyone. They see volunteering in a residential care home as just as good a source of experience. If you have a weekend job in a shop, then this can be a good source of experience too.

Where to start

To get work experience, prepare a short CV and hand this in to places in your area which relate to healthcare, saying that you are willing to volunteer. These places could be care homes, hospices, general practice surgeries, and of course hospitals. If you have no luck with this then do not worry.

Other useful activities might include reading medical journals or following news about the National Health Service. These things will emphasise an interest in a medical career and willingness to research. If you know any doctors or can talk to your GP then arranging time to speak with one will provide you with material to use in the interview, as well as demonstrate motivation and initiative. All healthcare professionals can be a valuable source of information and experience, not just doctors. After all, doctors work as part of large teams involving many healthcare professions, so demonstrating that you have a sense of those professions and how they work together will help you in both your personal statement and interview.

It is important to remember that your experiences are only as good as how you reflect on them in your personal statement and at interview. The ability to reflect on what you have learnt, both about yourself and about medicine, through your experiences is the key thing medical schools are looking for when they assess your application.

Work experience guidance during the Covid-19 pandemic

Medical schools are aware that the opportunities open to you have been affected and will take this into account. M ake sure to check the medical school’s website for information on work experience. Additionally, keep in mind that clinical work experience is not generally a requirement for applying to medical school in any year. 

Read our  guidance on gaining relevant experience to study medicine in the time of Covid-19  for ideas on how to gain experience during the pandemic. Our tips for gaining relevant experience include:

Keeping a reflective diary on what is happening in the news and online

Many healthcare professionals are posting online about their experience of working during the pandemic. Listen to what they have to say and reflect on this. All healthcare professionals can be a valuable source of information and experience, not just doctors. After all, doctors work as part of large teams involving many healthcare professions, so demonstrating that you have a sense of those professions and how they work together will help you in both your personal statement and interview. Remember that some media sources are more reliable than others and that sometimes ‘political spin’ is put on articles to help create a headline.

Making use of online resources

There are some fantastic free online resources available that will give you a taste of what working in healthcare is all about. For example:

• Brighton and Sussex Medical School has created a free   virtual work experience   course which explores several different medical specialities
• RCGP has also created a free interactive platform called   Observe GP   which highlights the many different aspects of working in primary care
• The GMC and NHS England have developed a free virtual reality app providing insight into a patient's journey to GP practice

Volunteer in your spare time

All forms of voluntary work can provide helpful work experience. While volunteer work in the NHS might be disrupted at this time other schemes may still be in operation and worth exploring.

Useful volunteering websites may include, but are not limited to:

• The   Do IT   website
• The   Nextdoor   website

Gaining relevant experience to study medicine and the impact of Covid-19

 Further reading

• Guidance on relevant experience for applying to medical school
• Guidance on gaining relevant experience to study medicine in the time of Covid-19
• Work experience  - in fosheet  
• Doctor, doctor... How do I get work experience? - GP Work Experience Toolkit

Virtual work experience

These courses have been recognised by medical schools as a suitable element of relevant experience to help prepare an application to medicine.

BSMS Virtual Work Experience

• Observe GP Virtual Work Experience
• Course types
• Entry requirements
• International applicants
• Medical schools

Work experience guidelines

Gaining experience during the covid-19 pandemic, doctor, doctor… how do i get work experience.

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Work experience and summer placements

Work experience 2023-2024.

All applications for work experience have now been filled for Spring and Summer 2024. Applicants may apply from October 2024 onwards.

CSCI is committed to taking on work experience students, year 10 and above , to participate in a period of work experience.

Students will have the opportunity to experience ‘live science’ within the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, a world-leading centre for stem cell research. The work experience placements will take place in our  Principal Investigator’s  labs, observing laboratory skills and techniques carried out by our research scientists.

Application process

Applicants should send a short covering letter (one side of A4 max), outlining why you wish to undertake work experience with us and what areas of science you are particularly interested in and why ( and/or specify a particular Principal Investigator of interest). Please also include a brief CV with your application and the dates that you would like to be considered for work experience. Applications are considered on a rolling basis and it may not be possible to offer work experience placements for all applicants.

Please note that we can only host students in Year 10 (aged 14/15) and above  ( excluding accelerated students ).

Please send all informal queries and/or applications to [email protected] . We will let you know as soon as possible of the outcome.

Nuffield placements

Nuffield Research Placements give students the opportunity to work alongside professional scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians for 4-6 weeks over the summer holidays. 

To find out more and to see if you meet the eligibility criteria, visit the Research Placements and Experiences website .

In2scienceUK programme

The In2scienceUK programme helps disadvantaged and under-represented 16-17 year olds (studying at least one STEM subject, either at sixth form or at college) gain an insight into science, technology, engineering or maths. The programme seeks supervisors to host these students for 2-week placements in the summer, and h osts can be anyone from PhD students, to Postdocs, to PIs. 

See here for more information.

Internships

Internships are fixed-term periods of paid work experience, typically lasting 1-3 months. 

You may want to check out the University of Cambridge School of Biological Sciences which run their internship programme Experience Postgrad Life Sciences every year for undergraduates.

In 2021, as a widening participation initiative, ‘ Experience Postgrad Life Sciences programme’, will offer 8-week Summer research placements to second year UK and Republic of Ireland undergraduate students, with priority given to those from underrepresented and disadvantaged groups.

External and existing University of Cambridge students are welcome to apply for internships within the University. To apply for an internship vacancy that you've seen advertised, please visit here for more information.

Please note: Applicants must apply to a specific vacancy - we cannot accept CVs from speculative applicants. 　

Erasmus+ is the European Union’s (EU) funding programme for education and training, youth and sport.　

The University of Cambridge has participated in the Erasmus programme since its inception 25 years ago and in the last few years there has been a substantial increase in student mobility.

Students from institutions with whom we have an Erasmus inter-institutional agreement can come at all levels; undergraduate, Masters and PhD and for one, two or three terms. Applicants must achieve the same entry requirements as students applying for a full degree, this includes an English language requirement. 

For more information about the Erasmus Programme, please visit  Erasmus+ .

Outreach projects - students under 16

Network for East Anglian Collaborative Outreach (neaco)  

The Network for East Anglian Collaborative Outreach (neaco) delivers activities across East Anglia to help students in Years 9-13, with little or no experience of university, to explore the world of higher education.

Find out more here . 

Insight Discover

Insight Discover is a programme that students follow from Year 7 to Year 8, which aims to develop key academic skills to support them in their academic work. In addition, the programme introduces students to university and the options which are available to them in the future. 

Insight Discover is a collaborative programme with The Brilliant Club (see also below) and in the final part of Insight Discover our participants take part in the Brilliant Club’s Scholars Programme .

Insight Explore

Insight Explore is an academic programme for Year 9 students which aims to develop participants interests and tackle the barriers many students face when applying to university.

Find out more here.

The Realise project's aim is to encourage more young people in care to consider higher education. The University of Cambridge runs a large number of events ranging from science days to theatre days to give a taste of life as a student at Cambridge.

Outreach projects – students 16+

HE+ is a collaboration between the University of Cambridge's Admissions Office and Colleges, and state schools/colleges across the UK. The University and schools in 20 regions collaborate to form regional consortia to support highly-able students from under-represented areas and backgrounds, and involves approximately 4,000 students in Year 12 each year.

Find out more here .  

Insight + aims to support students making competitive applications to selective Higher Education Institutions by supporting students over 12 months from Easter in Year 12. Students receive additional subject specific teaching across five subject strands (English, Physics, Maths, Chemistry and History) which is delivered by experience teachers and departmental outreach practitioners.

Sutton Trust Summer Schools

Sutton Trust Summer Schools are free subject-specific residential courses for Year 12 students studying at state-maintained schools in the UK. The five-day summer schools in July and August allow students to explore their interest in one of 26 subjects and gain an insight into what it is like to live and study as a first-year undergraduate student at Cambridge.

Find out more here .

Opportunities for current postgraduate students to get involved with schools or training

If you have a great idea for engagement with community or patient groups, get in touch with the Institute Public Engagement team to discuss support and approaches: [email protected]

The Brilliant Club

Are you a PhD researcher or doctoral graduate who wants to help a young person realise their academic potential?

The Brilliant Club’s 'Researcher Development Programme' offers PhD and Early Career Researchers a meaningful, professionally developmental, paid tutoring opportunity. Training with The Brilliant Club and working as a Scholars Programme tutor enables researchers to communicate their research to a non-specialist audience, gain valuable teaching and public engagement experience and deepen their knowledge of the UK education system.  

Tutors will be supported to complete a series of training modules before beginning work with us, and further continuous professional development for each subsequent placement. 

Get in touch

For information about work experience , contact [email protected]  

For information on internships , contact [email protected]

For information on longer term student placements , contact [email protected]

Other resources

The University of Cambridge  Gurdon Institute  runs an  Aspiring Scientist Training Programme  every year over the Summer. A few of their Group Leaders are affiliated with the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute. 

More information about taking part in work experience at the University of Cambridge can be found  here .

Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre Puddicombe Way Cambridge Biomedical Campus CB2 0AW

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• Medical Work Experience For 16-year-olds

Experience in the healthcare environment is essential for any medical application. This guide explores why it is invaluable, what to expect from your placements, and where to find them!

MEDICAL WORK EXPERIENCE

• Find out what medical experience options are available to 16-year-olds
• Learn about the importance of medical experience for med school applications
• Explore various opportunities

Jump to Section

• Deciding on Medicine
• Work Experience Requirements
• Medical Work Experience For 14-year-olds

Medical Work Experience For 15-year-olds

Medical work experience for 17-year-olds.

• Hospital Work Experience
• GP Placements
• Volunteering Opportunities
• International Placements
• Choosing a Medical School
• Personal Statement
• Interview Guide
• Interview Questions
• NHS Hot Topics
• Medical Ethics
• Graduate Entry
• Studying Abroad
• Study Medicine Abroad In Europe
• Studying Abroad in the USA
• Study Abroad in Ireland
• Study Medicine In The Caribbean
• Study Medicine in Australia
• Study Abroad in Hong Kong
• How To Survive Your First Year Of Med School
• Science Hot Topics
• Veterinary Medicine
• Allied Health
• Physician Associate
• The NHS Guide
• Parents’ Guide

Many clinical-based work experience opportunities begin from age 16. Explore avenues for securing work experience and what to expect from these volunteering and clinical placements.

Why Do I Need Medical Work Experience At 16?

There is no doubt that medicine is a competitive degree, increasingly so in recent years. Many aspiring medical students are now considering early application preparations to get as much experience as possible.

However, starting to build clinical work experience before 16 years old may not be particularly beneficial, if clinical exposure is the primary aim, given that many hospital-based opportunities require students to be a minimum of 16 years old for full clinical experience. 

All UK Medical Schools require evidence of applicants engaging in a caring or service role within healthcare or a related field. As such, medical work experience is pivotal for application success.

It is not only important for your medical applications but also as a means for both personal and professional growth. There are multiple benefits of beginning to explore medical work experience opportunities at 16: 

• Early exploration may spark your interest in particular specialities prior to medical school, nurturing early interest
• Immersion in the healthcare environment offers useful insights into professional dynamics and workplace operations
• Stepping out of your comfort zone through medical work experience fosters confidence and independence. Both are crucial skills in medical school and beyond! 
• Beyond academics, communication, empathy, and leadership skills can be developed through your work experience placements

Work Experience Options For 16-year-olds

Medical work experience opportunities for 16-year-olds are almost endless, each opportunity offering unique benefits. Regardless of the role, whether volunteering or clinically-based, you will gain valuable insights into various medical careers and begin to develop crucial skills for working in the professional world. 

Clinical placements

Most clinical placement opportunities begin at 16 years old. These placements are essential for your medical application and are likely to form a large basis of your medical school interviews. Securing these placements can be challenging, so it is crucial to reach out to doctors or your local GP practices early.

The earlier you get into contact, the longer you have to secure a placement and the more flexible you can be with timings – another essential component for securing placements in the healthcare sector!

Another good way to gain insights into a wide range of medical careers is through work experience programmes run by certain hospitals.  The King’s Work Experience programme offers one-to-five-day clinical and non-clinical work experience placements with assigned mentors to match your medical interests. 

If you are struggling to find work experience, click here to explore our top tips for applying to medical work experience. 

Voluntary placements

Voluntary placements, even if not directly in the healthcare field, can be an invaluable experience to help you develop crucial skills extending beyond the classroom. They are equally as important for your medical application, demonstrating your commitment to helping others. 

You are more likely to find voluntary opportunities in areas such as: 

• Local schools, including schools for children with impairments such as visual impairments
• Healthcare-related charities such as St John Ambulance
• Charity shops 
• And many other medical volunteering opportunities

What Clinical Activities Can I Take Part In As A 16-year-old?

At age 16, work experience usually involves more hands-on participation, allowing you to engage in numerous clinical tasks and activities compared to when you were 14 or 15.

This may make the experiences more stimulating and beneficial for you, facilitating active learning through direct involvement in hospital tasks.  

Tasks and activities you may be involved in during your clinical work experience placements could include, but are not limited to:

• Surveying patients in a ward to discover what their experiences are 
• Analysis of existing data, including data collected from surveys 
• Updating communication materials. In hospitals, these may include things like the pages of websites, leaflets or noticeboards
• Help to make patients’ beds on the ward and help them to find their way around the wards
• Shadow a nurse or healthcare assistant as they both take and record some simple measurements from patients including their blood pressure and heart rate
• Observing routine procedures or investigations, including minor surgical procedures
• Talking to patients and escorting them between different areas of the hospital

Any tasks involving direct patient contact will also require consent from the patient. A doctor should be with you at all times during your placement, however, so don’t worry too much about this as they will help you to obtain verbal consent from patients beforehand. 

Boost Your Medicine Application By Volunteering

Award-winning charity Kissing it Better (KiB) facilitates virtual and face-to-face volunteering experiences supporting older people

Can 16-year-olds Receive Payment For Their Work?

Work experience in the NHS will not include payment for students. Similarly, if you decide to pursue a volunteering role, you will not be paid for your time.

There are some paid caring/service roles available to 16-year-olds, so if you are interested in a paid role, then look into these over volunteering or shadowing roles. As a young worker of 16 to 17-years-old, you are entitled to at least £5.28 per hour. 

Additional Rules And Guidelines

Employers should be mindful when working with minors to avoid overworking them or violating restrictions on child employment.

During school holidays, 15 to 16-year-olds can only work a maximum of 35 hours a week. This includes:

• a maximum of 8 hours on weekdays and Saturdays
• a maximum of 2 hours on Sunday

During term, 15 to 16-year-olds can only work a maximum of 12 hours a week. This includes:

• a maximum of 2 hours on school days and Sundays
• a maximum of 8 hours on Saturdays

How Much Work Experience Do I Need For My Medical Application? 

There is no minimum requirement for the number of work experience placements or hours of work experience for UK medical applications. In most cases, a suitable amount of work experience would be around 2 weeks, however, this varies depending on the type of work experience etc! Aim for a broad range of work experience placements so you have plenty to write about in your personal statement and talk about in interviews!

Do I Need A DBS Check For My Work Experience Placements? 

When you are on your work experience placements you will be supervised at all times so there is no need for you to complete a DBS check. On volunteering placements, particularly those working with children under the age of 16, you are likely to be required to carry out a DBS check. In most cases, this will be carried out through the organisation you are volunteering with. 

Do I Need To Make Notes From My Work Experience Placements? 

Notes from your work experience are highly useful for interview preparation leading up to your Medical School Interviews. Every medical interview includes at least one question about your work experience, whether that be what you found most interesting, what skills you learnt or just your reflections on your work experience. 

Taking notes is essential to be able to answer these questions well as it is unlikely you will be able to remember every detail from your work experience placements! Click here to read some work experience questions we have compiled that you may be asked in your medical interviews. 

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Work Experience

Our work experience programme is a valuable opportunity for students to find out more about careers in biomedical science, gain an insight into life in laboratory research, and see inside our animal facility.

Years 10-11

This one-week programme will allow the students to access our research and service laboratories and experience the challenges and rewards of working in biomedical science. They will spend time in our world leading animal facility gaining valuable insight on how the use of animals in medical research is regulated and how our state-of-the-art methods allow the study of human diseases in model organisms.

Deadline for applications: 15th March 2024

Communication of outcome: 8th-12th April 2024

Work experience week: 1st-5th July 2024

Years 12-13

This one-week programme will allow students to rotate between different laboratories and gain theoretical and practical experience of the work and techniques used by the Mary Lyon Centre scientists , to advance the understanding of human genetic disease using the mouse as a model organism. They will be able to observe some of the work carried out in the animal s facility and understand how mice help us dissect disease onset, progression, and outcome.

Work experience week: 8th-12th July 2024

Year 13/university applicants

This one-week intensive programme will allow the students to go through a short scientific project, from design stage to data analysis and interpretation to gain invaluable practical laboratory skills, including health and safety, basic laboratory techniques as well as an overview of how to design a scientific experiment based on the available information and a well formulated scientific question.

Deadline for applications: 12th May 2024

Communication of outcomes: 20th-26th May 2024

Work experience week: 15th-19th July 2024

How to apply

To apply, you will need to send us your CV and a brief cover letter/personal statement about why you would like to come and do your work experience at MRC Harwell.

Please clearly specify which of the above programmes you are applying to and include in your cover letter any types of work done here that are of particular interest to you (for example microscopy, histology, pathology, or work with stem cells), as we hope to place successful applicants in teams that might better suit them.

Please send any enquiries/applications to [email protected]

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