International Day of Women and Girls in Science is an opportunity to not only promote the critical role women and girls play in science and technology, but also encourage future generations to consider a future in the field.
HEIW is supporting the next three cohorts of cadets in the Prince of Wales Nurse Cadet Scheme. The scheme, run by the Royal College of Nursing, aims to inspire young people about the healthcare industry.
Cadets Fern Colson and Caitlin John tell us why they joined the cadet scheme and how they hope to help others through science and technology.
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Fern Colson “I became interested in the Royal College of Nursing’s ‘Nurse Cadet Scheme’ as a result of my family background in first aid (two of my aunts are paramedics and my uncle is a first responder), and my wish to help others, particularly those who have obtained substantial injuries. The Invictus Games have been particularly inspirational to me. Each of the competitors have received life changing injuries as a result of serving in the armed forces, but as a result of advances in science, technology and medical engineering, they are now able to achieve things that wouldn’t have been imaginable, let alone possible 20 years ago. For example, one soldier now has prosthetic legs which connect via Bluetooth to allow him to make micro adjustments so that he can use them as he needs to and remain active. Cases like this, combined with my interest in computer programming and technology, inspires me to design prosthetic limbs which are affordable for all to buy. By experimenting with science and new technology, such as 3D printing, I want to be able to help people, like children who require new limbs as they grow, to lead happy lives.” |
Caitlin John “When I was in comprehensive school, my physics and my chemistry teachers were very inspirational. They influenced me and encouraged me to go on STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) trips with the school to visit places like Swansea University where I sat in on lectures from science professors and the Sony factory in Pen-Coed. I became involved in the Nurse Cadet Scheme because I wanted to be able to develop and expand my knowledge. Initially, my ambition was to become a paramedic as I am not only good at dealing with critical casualties and their symptoms, but I also enjoy helping people and making a difference to their lives. However, as a result of the Scheme, I now want to become a nurse. I want to be able to help people and improve their physical and mental condition as best as I can. I want to be able to put a smile on someone’s face who has just had bad news and make them feel better. Science is developing every day, especially within health and social care. I want to be involved with developing technology which will benefit the greater population and ultimately, change lives.” |