The College of West Anglia (CWA) T-Level Health and Social Care students were given the opportunity to gain real-life experience with a visit to local palliative care charity, Tapping House.
CWA students were taken on a tour of the organisations site, giving them a valuable insight into the work of Tapping House and the support it provides. During the visit, students took part in a session focused on the role and responsibilities of a palliative care nurse. As well as the additional roles that are present within a hospice, and the ways to challenge common misconceptions about hospice care. They explored how their course at CWA can help them develop the skills, confidence and knowledge needed to pursue this career pathway, should they wish to do so.
Students also had the opportunity to speak with staff, ask questions and learn more about what it takes to work in the sector. The visit also highlighted the industry placement opportunities offered by Tapping House, helping to inspire students as they consider their next steps.
Lindsay Becking-Cope, Lecturer & Course Director – T-Level Health & Adult Nursing & Senior Healthcare Support Worker Apprenticeship said, “One of the most valuable parts of the T-Level Health programme is giving students opportunities to learn outside the classroom alongside health & care employers and professionals. By meeting people, asking questions and seeing compassionate, person-centred care in practice, they gain insights that cannot be replicated in the classroom. We are also fortunate that Tapping House supports two of our students each year with work placements, a key part of the course. Suitable health placements can be difficult to secure, so strong relationships with local employers and organisations such as Tapping House are vital for us and the future health professionals we teach.”
Matilda Hattersley who is studying T-Level, Technical Qualification in Health Level 3 said, “Visiting Tapping House was such a meaningful experience for all of us. It was amazing to see the care and support they provide to all of their residents in the hospice and in the community.”
Brooke Muller who is also undertaking the same T-Level course added, “The trip was very inspiring and eye-opening to what Tapping House really is and what it does for end-of-life care.”
Rebecca Walls, Voluntary Services Manager and IT Projects Lead at Tapping House said, “We’re delighted to welcome T-Level students to Tapping House and give them an insight into the work we do and the difference palliative care can make to patients and their families. Supporting young people as they explore their future careers is something we’re really passionate about. It’s wonderful to work with local education providers to show students the opportunities available right here at Tapping House.”
This visit further strengthened the partnership between the two organisations, following a 2025 visit from palliative nurses and nursing assistants to CWA’s state-of-the-art clinical facilities at the School of Nursing Studies, where they gained hands-on experience. These cross-community collaborations allow both organisations to share knowledge, support the education of the future workforce and provide valuable real-life experience.