12 June 2026
Aspiring healthcare professionals have gained the confidence, skills and experience they need to begin a career in the NHS, thanks to a training programme.
Four participants have completed the ‘Get into Healthcare’ programme, led by The King’s Trust in collaboration with The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust (RWT), and were celebrated at a special recognition event.
During the eight-week programme, they completed self-directed learning and assessments alongside hands-on experience across wards and hospital services.
For the first time at the Trust, participants were also awarded the Care Certificate – a nationally recognised qualification for healthcare support workers and adult social care workers.
Sallie Johnson, NHS Futures Manager at RWT, said: “It’s a great opportunity for young people – they have worked so hard throughout the programme and it’s a fantastic recruitment route into the NHS for both participants and managers.”
John Agulios from Wednesfield was inspired to join a caring profession after becoming the primary caregiver for his father during chemotherapy treatment.
He said: “I found the programme excellent. I felt well prepared both before the hands-on experience and throughout the placement.
“I worked in endoscopy at West Park Hospital and it helped me understand what happens in the department. It was a change from my engineering background and has confirmed my desire to work in healthcare.
“It’s been interesting to work alongside Nurses and be present in procedure rooms. Everyone was so kind and welcoming, and the experience has been invaluable.”
John now hopes to secure a role in Endoscopy in the near future.
Aspiring Midwife, Sade Ramsay, from Bilston worked on the Stroke Ward at New Cross Hospital.
The 23-year-old signed up after she became a caregiver for her elderly grandmother. She spent her placement on the Stroke Ward at New Cross Hospital, supporting with patient care, manual handling, bed changes and patient interaction.
She said: “I have always wanted to work for the NHS and thought this would be the perfect opportunity.
“I am so proud of myself. It has given me the confidence to apply for roles within the care sector and I’m excited for what the future holds.”
Louise Richards, NHS Futures Programme Trainer, praised the participants for their hard work and dedication.
She said: “The programme has been a roaring success. The participants now have the knowledge and skills they need to do the job.
“The transformation and confidence you see from start to finish is amazing. We’re thrilled to provide this stepping stone into the NHS.
“Thank you to all departments across the Trust — this wouldn’t be possible without your support.”
The next programme begins in July, with information sessions taking place in coming weeks. To find out more, please email: Faizah.ahmad@kingstrust.org.uk