Project SEARCH Students Shine in First Hospital Placements

Project SEARCH learners based at North Devon District Hospital have reached a major milestone, completing the first half of their initial work placements — and they’ve already made a seriously strong impression. NHS teams have praised their professionalism, determination, and the genuine impact they’re having across a wide range of departments, including Legal Services Clerk, Ward Support, Medical Records Admin, Physiotherapy Reception, Domestic Services, The Restaurant, and the Seamoor Unit as Support Healthcare Assistants.

Hospital staff have shared glowing feedback about the students’ contribution.

Sharron Bates, Legal Services Manager, said: “Thank you so much Lauren, you are significantly helping us as a team reduce the legacy paper files from RDE cases so we can move towards being totally digital in live and concluded files.”

Ward teams echoed this, noting the clear difference being made day-to-day: “The positive effects of James’s work are clearly being felt on the ward by nurses and staff.” They also praised Ellie – “very quick to learn new tasks, positive and happy and lovely to the patients” – and Kyle, described as “a hard worker and happy to help in any way!”

Alongside their hospital roles, students have been developing their professional skills through dedicated employability sessions in the Project SEARCH training room. Their commitment has impressed their trainer, David Bridges, who said: “I am really proud of this group of students who have set the bar incredibly high and are in the process of achieving their goals through hard work and professional attitude.”

This early success marks an exciting start to the year – and a brilliant demonstration of what young people can achieve when given the opportunity, the right support, and a platform to thrive.