SECONDARY school students have taken a glimpse at future career opportunities in the medical industry.

Youngsters from the Marches School in Oswestry and Sir John Talbot's School, Whitchurch spoke to a range of organisations at a medical conference.

The year 10 pupils at both schools listened to and asked questions of professionals including a theatre nurse, research project manager, pharmacist, ward manager, consultant radiologist, medical physicist, physiotherapist and a trauma orthopaedic surgeon.

The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital (RJAH), Powys NHS, Stem Learning and Marches Academy Trust all took part in the event, which was held at the Marches School.

As an added bonus a member of staff at the Academy Trust, who is a former army medic, conducted an evacuation scenario.

Sian Cooke, year 10 progress leader at the Marches School, said: “This event really exceeded expectations and was a terrific, worthwhile opportunity for our students in the trust to gain first-hand knowledge of the benefits and challenges that there are working in the medical profession.”

Meg Murphy, careers advisor at the Marches Academy Trust, added: “We would like to pass on our gratitude to the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital, Powys NHS and Stem Learning for introducing the medical professionals to us and of course to the speakers who gave up their free time to attend the event.

"Nurse Marie Winterton had just completed a 12 hour shift and managed to give three presentations. It was a wonderful day, which provided a great insight into the wide range of careers available in the medical sector”.

Lawrence Moulton, speciality training registrar in trauma and orthopaedics, said the conference was an excellent event to be involved in.

He addedL "It’s really important that students have opportunities to learn about the different careers that are available to them in healthcare.

“I spoke to students about my own personal journey and also highlighted the various opportunities and prospects medical degrees can provide you with.

“I was honoured to take part in the event and really enjoyed inspiring the future generation to consider a career in healthcare.”