Work Experience
Curious about a career in healthcare? Get a real taste of working in the NHS with SDHC work experience.
Take your first step into the NHS with hands‑on work experience and the opportunity to work alongside our brilliant teams across a wide range of specialities and departments.
If you’re 16 years or older, live locally and hold a real passion to help others, this scheme is for you.
To be eligible to apply, you must:
- Be aged 16 years or over at the start of the placement
- Live locally within the Surrey Downs area or have a strong connection to the area
- Have a genuine interest or curiosity about a career in healthcare or the NHS
- Demonstrate a positive attitude, willingness to learn and behave professionally
- Be able to commit to the full placement dates and times agreed
- Be comfortable working in a professional health and care environment
- Follow all confidentiality, safeguarding and health and safety requirements
- Have support from a parent or carer where applicable (for under 18s)
What to expect from your placement
During your work experience placement with us, you will have the opportunity to gain first-hand insight into how NHS services operate day to day. You may shadow a named clinician and their team during ward rounds, out-patient clinics, team meetings and teaching sessions, as well as observe how different professionals work together to deliver patient care.
The placement is designed to be informative and supportive, helping you understand a range of roles, build confidence in a professional environment, and develop practical workplace skills. You’ll also have the chance to ask questions, reflect on your learning, and explore potential career pathways within health and care.
Contact the team
Get in touch with SDHC’s Work Experience Team by emailing esth.sdhcworkexperience@nhs.net.