GHA Student Placements

To study Medicine or Dentistry at a UK university, applicants need to meet a range of academic, personal, and practical requirements. Here’s a summary of what’s typically needed:

1. Academic Qualifications:

• A-levels: Most universities require AAA or AAB in A-levels, including Biology and Chemistry. Some universities may accept Maths or Physics as the third subject, but this varies.

2. Admissions Tests:

• UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test): Most UK medical and dental schools require the UCAT, a computer-based test assessing cognitive abilities, attitudes, and professional behaviours.

3. Personal Statement:

• A strong personal statement is crucial. It should demonstrate a genuine interest in medicine or dentistry, highlight any relevant work experience (e.g., shadowing healthcare professionals, volunteering in healthcare settings), and reflect on why you want to pursue these demanding careers.

4. Work Experience:

• Relevant experience in a healthcare setting is essential. This can include shadowing doctors or dentists, volunteering in hospitals, or gaining experience in care homes or community health services. This will help you demonstrate your understanding of the profession, patient care, and the realities of clinical work.

5. More information:

• K. medical and dental school entry requirements – https://www.medschools.ac.uk/studying-medicine/how-to-apply-to-medical-school-in-the-uk/entry-requirements?type=standard-entry-medicine

• Applying for Medicine/dentistry – a step by step guide – https://www.themedicportal.com/application-guide/deciding-on-medicine/study-medicine-a-step-by-step-guide/#:~:text=Do%20work%20experience%20and%2For%20volunteering%20Choose%20a%20Medical,interview%20and%20secure%20an%20offer%20to%20study%20Medicine

• Years ahead: training pathways after qualifying as a doctor – https://www.scotlanddeanery.nhs.scot/international-medical-graduates/medical-education-and-training-pathways/

• www.gmc-uk.org/

The BSc Nursing program is offered at the University of Gibraltar. For detailed information on the entry requirements, please follow the link below.

https://www.unigib.edu.gi/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/BSc-Hons-Adult-Nursing-Programme-Specification-1.pdf

To study Nursing at a UK university, applicants need to meet specific academic, practical, and personal requirements. Here’s a summary of what’s typically needed:

1. Academic Qualifications:

• 2 A-levels: Most universities require BBC or BBB in A-levels. While Biology is highly recommended, other subjects such as Health and Social Care, Psychology, or Chemistry may also be considered.

2. Work Experience:

• Relevant experience is crucial for nursing applicants. While not always mandatory, having experience in healthcare settings (e.g., volunteering in hospitals, care homes, or clinics) helps demonstrate your understanding of the profession and your commitment to patient care.

3. Personal Statement:

• A strong personal statement is essential. It should reflect your passion for nursing, explain why you want to pursue a career in healthcare, and highlight any relevant skills and experiences. Focus on personal qualities like empathy, communication, and your ability to work in a team.

4. Additional Requirements:

• Maths and English: Some universities may require you to have specific GCSEs in Maths and English (usually at grade C/4 or above) even if you have A-levels or vocational qualifications.
• Personal Qualities: Nursing requires qualities such as compassion, patience, attention to detail, and the ability to work under pressure. Demonstrating these qualities through personal experiences, work placements, or volunteer work can strengthen your application.
• References: A strong academic reference from a teacher or mentor, as well as a character reference (e.g., from someone who can speak to your experience in healthcare or social care), may be required.

5. More information:

• https://www.nmc.org.uk/

To study Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) at a UK university, applicants must meet specific academic, personal, and practical requirements. Here’s a summary of what’s typically needed:

1. Academic Qualifications:

A-levels: Most universities require BBC or BBB in A-levels. English, Biology, Psychology, and Health and Social Care are commonly recommended subjects, but some universities may accept a broader range of A-levels.

2. Work Experience:

Relevant experience is an important aspect of the application process. Universities typically look for experience in settings where you can observe or interact with people who have speech, language, or communication difficulties. This might include:

• Volunteering in hospitals, schools, care homes, or speech therapy clinics.
• Shadowing Speech and Language Therapists in clinical settings.
• Work experience with children or adults with communication needs (e.g., supporting individuals with autism, developmental disorders, stroke recovery, etc.).

3. Personal Statement:

A strong personal statement is essential to explain why you want to pursue a career in Speech and Language Therapy. It should highlight your passion for helping others, your understanding of the role of a speech therapist, and your relevant skills and experiences.

When writing your personal statement or preparing for an interview at university to study speech and language therapy, you will need to demonstrate your interest and understanding of the profession. There are some tips below from speech and language therapy university admission tutors and what they look for when reviewing applications:

• Evidence of wide and diverse reading to support the applicant’s understanding of their choice, which goes beyond more that ‘what an SLT does’.
• An explanation of why the applicant wants to train as a speech and language therapist and what makes them suitable for this degree and career.
• An application specifically tailored to a speech and language therapy course.
• Evidence that the applicant has undertaken research into the speech and language therapy profession and what they learned as a result.
• Skills from all parts of life that the applicant can bring to the profession.
• An understanding of what might be important from a service user’s perspective.

4. Additional Requirements:

English and Maths: Some universities may ask for specific GCSE grades in English and Maths (usually at grade C/4 or above) even if you have A-levels or vocational qualifications.

References: You will typically need academic references from your teachers, as well as a character reference from someone who can speak to your work experience in healthcare, education, or social care settings.

5. Reading List

These books will give you an understanding of some of the conditions and disabilities a speech and language therapist might help to support.

You can use some of the insights from these books to support your university application.

• The Diving Bell and the Butterflyby Jean-Dominique Bauby – A memoir where the writer describes his life before and after suffering a stroke that left him with locked-in syndrome.
• The Spectrum Girl’s Survival Guide: How to Grow Up Awesome and Autisticby Siena Castellon – Advice and tips to help autistic girls live their best lives.
• A Stitch of Time: The Year a Brain Injury Changed My Language and Lifeby Lauren Marks – One woman’s journey to regaining her language and identity after a brain aneurysm affects her ability to communicate.
• Adventures in the Mainstream: Coming of Age with Down Syndromeby Greg Palmer – A father chronicles two of the most important years in the life of his son, who has Down syndrome.
• The Man Who Mistook His Wife for a Hatby Oliver Sacks – The famous neurologist Dr Oliver Sacks recounts the stories of patients struggling to adapt to their neurological disorders.
• My Stroke of Insightby Jill Bolte Taylor – A doctor’s first-hand account of a stroke and the process of recovery.
• The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-timeby Mark Haddon – A murder mystery in which the protagonist is 15 years old with Asperger’s Syndrome.
• Let me finish: A rare insight into living with a lifelong stammerby Paul O’Meara – A memoir about navigating the world as someone who stammers.

For further information on choosing speech and language therapy as a career – access the Royal College of Speech & Language Therapists online at

https://www.rcslt.org/speech-and-language-therapy/become-a-speech-and-language-therapist/why-choose-slt/

https://www.rcslt.org/wp-content/uploads/media/Project/RCSLT/a-career-in-slt-booklet.pdf?la=en&hash=4526F902602D82E7855C5D534199646A00A4CF3C

To study Physiotherapy at a UK university, applicants must meet specific academic, personal, and practical requirements. Here’s a summary of what’s typically needed:

1. Academic Qualifications:

• A-levels: Most universities require BBC or BBB in A-levels. Key subjects include Biology (essential), Chemistry, Psychology, Physical Education, or Health and Social Care. Some universities may accept other subjects, but a strong science background is usually preferred.

2. Work Experience:

• Relevant healthcare experience is essential for Physiotherapy applicants. This can include:
  • Volunteering in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, care homes, or sports clinics.
  • Shadowing physiotherapists in clinical settings (e.g., outpatient departments, hospitals, or sports clinics).
  • Experience working with patients (particularly those with musculoskeletal, neurological, or respiratory conditions) will help demonstrate your commitment to the profession.

3. Personal Statement:

• A strong personal statement is a key part of the application process. It should express your passion for physiotherapy, explain why you want to pursue this career, and reflect on any relevant skills and experiences.

4. Additional Requirements:

• Maths and English GCSEs: Most universities will require GCSEs in Maths and English at grade C/4 or above. Some may ask for higher grades, so it’s important to check specific entry requirements.
• References: You will typically need academic references from teachers, as well as a character reference (e.g., from someone familiar with your work experience in a healthcare or sports setting).

To study Occupational Therapy (OT) at a UK university, applicants must meet certain academic, practical, and personal requirements. Here’s a breakdown of what’s typically needed:

1. Academic Qualifications:

• A-levels: Most universities require BBC or BBB in A-levels, with Biology being an essential subject. Other relevant subjects may include Psychology, Health and Social Care, Physical Education, or Sociology. A strong science background is often preferred, but other subjects may also be accepted depending on the university.

2. Work Experience:

• Relevant experience in healthcare or social care is essential. This can include:
  • Volunteering in settings such as hospitals, care homes, rehabilitation centers, or with disability services.
  • Shadowing Occupational Therapists in clinical settings (e.g., hospitals, rehabilitation centers, schools).
  • Working with individuals who have physical or mental health conditions, disabilities, or those recovering from injuries can help demonstrate your understanding of the OT role.

3. Personal Statement:

• A well-written personal statement is essential. You should explain:
  • Why you want to pursue a career in Occupational Therapy.
  • How your experiences, skills, and personal qualities make you suitable for this challenging and rewarding profession.
  • Your understanding of the role of an Occupational Therapist in helping people with physical, mental, or developmental challenges to live independently and improve their quality of life.

4. Additional Requirements:

• Maths and English GCSEs: Most universities require GCSEs in English and Maths at grade C/4 or above. Some universities may ask for higher grades, so it’s important to check specific entry requirements.
• References: You will typically need academic references from teachers, as well as a character reference (for example, from someone who can speak to your work experience in healthcare or social care).

5. More Information:

• https://www.rcot.co.uk/about-occupational-therapy/what-is-occupational-therapy
• https://www.rcot.co.uk/rcot-education-hub/becoming-ot
• Membership is open to anyone who’s enrolled on an occupational therapy degree-level programme in the UK, or studying a RCOT-recognised support worker qualification. You can discover more on the student membership section of our main website.

To study Paramedic Science at a UK university, applicants need to meet a range of academic, practical, and personal requirements. Here’s a summary of what is typically needed:

1. Academic Qualifications:

• A-levels: Most universities require BBC or BBB in A-levels. Biology or Human Biology is usually essential, with other subjects such as Chemistry, Physical Education, or Psychology often considered helpful.

2. Work Experience:

• Relevant experience is important to demonstrate your commitment and understanding of the role of a paramedic. This can include:
  • Volunteering with ambulance services, first aid organizations, or in community healthcare settings.
  • Shadowing paramedics or emergency medical staff during shifts in ambulance services is only permitted for students with an unconditional offer from a university, due to insurance and exposure concerns”.
  • Work experience in healthcare settings such as hospitals, clinics, or care homes can also be valuable in demonstrating your interest in patient care and emergency healthcare services.
• Gaining experience in a fast-paced, patient-facing environment is essential to show that you understand the challenges paramedics face and are prepared for the demands of the role.

3. Personal Statement:

• A strong personal statement is crucial to demonstrate your passion for paramedicine. It should cover:
  • Why you want to become a paramedic and what motivates you to pursue a career in emergency care.
  • Any relevant experience that shows your understanding of patient care, teamwork, and working under pressure.
  • Your personal qualities such as communication, problem-solving, and empathy, which are key attributes for paramedics.
• You should also highlight any skills that demonstrate your ability to work in challenging environments, as well as your commitment to helping others in emergency situations.

4. Additional Requirements:

• Maths and English GCSEs: Most universities require GCSEs in English and Maths at grade C/4 or above. Some may require higher grades, so it’s important to check specific entry requirements for each program.
• References: You will typically need academic references (e.g., from teachers or tutors) and possibly a work-related reference (e.g., from a healthcare placement supervisor or someone familiar with your voluntary work in healthcare)

To study Biomedical Science at a UK university, applicants must meet specific academic and practical requirements. Below is an overview of what is typically needed to pursue a degree in this field:

1. Academic Qualifications:

• A-levels: Most universities require BBB to BBC in A-levels. Biology is typically an essential subject, and Chemistry is often strongly recommended. Other suitable subjects include Mathematics, Physics, Psychology, or Physical Education, but they may vary by institution.

2. Work Experience:

• While work experience is not always a formal requirement for entry, it can strengthen your application. Relevant experience includes:
  • Volunteering or internships in laboratories, research centers, or hospitals where you can observe the role of biomedical scientists.
  • Experience in healthcare settings, such as shadowing professionals in medical laboratories, clinics, or research labs, which demonstrates your understanding of the field.
  • Experience working with biological or clinical data analysis, lab equipment, or other technical skills can also be valuable.

3. Personal Statement:

• A compelling personal statement is crucial. It should explain:
  • Why you want to study Biomedical Science and what motivates you to pursue a career in the field.
  • How your academic achievements, work experience, and personal qualities make you well-suited to the program.
  • Your understanding of biomedical science and how it contributes to medical research, diagnostics, and the healthcare industry.
• Highlight skills such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, attention to detail, and a keen interest in biology and medicine.

4. Additional Requirements:

• Maths and English GCSEs: Most universities will require GCSEs in English and Maths at grade C/4 or above. Some universities may have specific GCSE grade requirements in these subjects, so it is important to check individual entry criteria.
• References: Typically, you will need to provide academic references, ideally from teachers who can speak to your ability in science subjects (particularly Biology and Chemistry), and, if applicable, a reference from any relevant work experience or internships.

To study Radiography at a UK university, applicants need to meet specific academic and practical requirements. Here is a breakdown of what is typically needed:

1. Academic Qualifications:

• A-levels: Universities require grades from ABB – BCC in A Levels (Grades defer between universities) with most requiring a B Grade in a Science (Biology, physics, chemistry or Mathematics). Some institutions may accept other science-related subjects, such as Health and Social Care or Psychology.

• GCSEs: Most universities require 5 GCSEs grades 5 -9 (or grades A* – C if assigned according to previous grading format), which must include English Language, Maths and a Science. Please note that Science dual award is acceptable. Core Science and Applied GCSEs are also considered. All GCSEs should be obtained in one sitting.
• Alternative option: Foundation to Human and Animal Health Professions (Therapeutic Radiography & Oncology) (Year 0) BSc (Hons) – Entry requirements: 5 GCSE s at minimum grade 5 (C) to include Maths; English Language OR English Literature; Science (single; dual; or combined).

2. Work Experience:

• Relevant work experience is important to demonstrate your understanding of the healthcare environment and the role of a radiographer. This can include:
  • Shadowing a radiographer in a hospital or clinical setting to observe the day-to-day responsibilities of the role. Some universities will require a minimum of a day’s work experience in a Radiology department.
  • Volunteering Having experience of working with the general public, children, the elderly or people with disabilities, in a paid or voluntary capacity will strengthen an application.
  • Work experience in a hospital or with medical professionals can help show your commitment to patient care and your ability to work in clinical settings.
• Gaining first-hand exposure to medical imaging equipment, patient care, and the radiography profession is essential to demonstrate your understanding of the field.

3. Personal Statement:

• A strong personal statement is vital to convey your motivation for studying radiography. It should explain:

• Why are you applying? Why you are interested in radiography as a career and what drives your interest in medical imaging. Explain your understanding of the role radiographer’s play in diagnosing and treating patients. Your personal and practical skills combined will create a unique picture of who you are and why you’ll be a successful student, so definitely include both.
• Do your studies relate? How your academic achievements and work experience and extracurricular activities have prepared you for the challenges of studying radiography? Prove your enthusiasm for your current study and take the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and knowledge now and how you want to build on that.
• Why are you interested? This is your chance to show your passion and really demonstrate who you are. If you have hobbies or volunteering experiences related to the subject, include them here.
• Why will you be great? Your personal and practical skills combined will create a unique picture of who you are and why you’ll be a successful student, so definitely include both. Highlight personal qualities with examples such as communication skills, teamwork, empathy and compassion, attention to detail and problem-solving abilities all of which are essential for a career in radiography.

4. Additional Requirements:

• References: You will need to provide academic references (usually from teachers) and potentially a character reference (e.g., from someone familiar with your work experience in a healthcare or social care setting or from a non-relative adult who).
• Health screening: The University and the School of Allied Health Professions and Nursing has an obligation to undertake health screening of all prospective healthcare students. Any offer of a place on this course of study is conditional on completion of a health questionnaire, and a satisfactory assessment of fitness to train from the University’s Occupational Health Service. This will include some obligatory immunisations and blood tests. The link below provides further information: https://heops.org.uk/
• Declaration of criminal background: You will understand that as an Allied Health Professions when you qualify, you will be asked to treat children and other vulnerable people. We therefore need information about any criminal offences of which you may have been convicted, or with which you have been charged. The information you provide may later be checked with the police.

To study Nutrition and Dietetics at a UK university, the entry requirements can vary slightly between institutions, but generally, the following are required:

1. Academic Qualifications:

• Most universities require A-levels in specific subjects. Typically, you will need:
  • Biology: Often required, as it is foundational to understanding human physiology and nutrition.
  • Chemistry: This is sometimes required or recommended, as it underpins many aspects of dietetics, particularly biochemistry.
  • Another Science or Relevant Subject: Some universities accept subjects like Mathematics, Psychology, Health and Social Care, or Physical Education as complementary to the sciences.
  • Typical Grades: The typical requirement is AAB to ABB at A-level, though this may vary. Some universities may also accept a combination of A-levels and vocational qualifications like BTECs.

2. Work Experience:

• Relevant experience in a healthcare setting or in a nutrition-related role (e.g., voluntary work or paid positions in hospitals, clinics, care homes, or health organizations) is often desirable and sometimes essential.
• Some universities may have specific requirements for work experience or may ask for evidence of your motivation and understanding of the profession.

3. Interview and Personal Statement:

• Most dietetics courses require an interview as part of the selection process.
• Your personal statement should demonstrate your understanding of the profession, interest in nutrition and dietetics, and commitment to helping people improve their health through dietary changes.
• Evidence of relevant extracurricular activities or work experience will be important in this section of your application.

4. Additional Requirements:

• Maths and English GCSEs: Most universities require GCSEs in English and Maths at grade C/4 or above. Some institutions may specify higher grades in these subjects, so it is important to check individual entry requirements.
• References: You will need to provide academic references (usually from teachers in science subjects) and potentially a character reference (e.g., from someone familiar with your work experience in a healthcare or social care setting).

5. More Information

https://www.bda.uk.com/about-dietetics/how-become-a-dietitian/where-to-study-dietetics.html

To study Pharmacy at a UK university, the entry requirements can vary by institution, but generally, they follow similar patterns. Below are the typical entry requirements for undergraduate MPharm (Master of Pharmacy) courses in the UK

1. A-Level Requirements:

• Most universities require A-levels in the following subjects:
  • Chemistry: This is almost always required as it forms the foundation of pharmaceutical sciences.
  • Biology: Also frequently required or strongly recommended, as it relates to human biology and pharmacology.
  • Mathematics or Physics: Some universities may require one of these subjects, or they may accept them as complementary subjects.
  • Other subjects: Some universities may accept A-levels in subjects such as Psychology, Health and Social Care, or Pharmacology, though these are often seen as secondary to the core science subjects.
  • Typical Grades: Most universities require AAA or AAB at A-level, with Chemistry and Biology being the most commonly required subjects. Some universities may have slightly lower entry requirements (ABB or BBB), depending on the institution and course competitiveness.

2. Work Experience:

• While not always mandatory, some universities may prefer or encourage applicants to have relevant work experience in a healthcare or pharmacy setting. This could include:
  • Volunteering in a pharmacy, care home, hospital, or similar healthcare settings.
  • Paid or voluntary positions related to healthcare or customer service (e.g., pharmacy assistant or healthcare support roles).
• Work experience will help you demonstrate your interest in the profession and an understanding of what a career in pharmacy entails.

3. Personal Statement and Interview:

• Personal Statement: This is an important part of your application. You will need to demonstrate your passion for pharmacy, your interest in science, and your commitment to working in healthcare. It’s essential to explain why you want to study pharmacy and what qualities make you well-suited for the course.
• Interview: Many universities conduct interviews as part of the selection process, either in person or online. The interview may assess your communication skills, motivation for studying pharmacy, and understanding of the role of a pharmacist. Some universities may also ask for situational or problem-solving questions to gauge your critical thinking skills.

4. Additional Requirements:

• Maths and English GCSEs: Most universities require GCSEs in English and Maths at grade C/4 or above. Some institutions may specify higher grades in these subjects, so it is important to check individual entry requirements.
• References: You will need to provide academic references (usually from teachers in science subjects) and potentially a character reference (e.g., from someone familiar with your work experience in a healthcare or social care setting).

5. More Information

It takes a minimum of 5 years to qualify as a pharmacist and is a combination of studies and paid employment. Following this, you need to register as a pharmacist with the UK regulatory body (the General Pharmaceutical Council). For further information please click on the following link:

https://www.pharmacyregulation.org/students-and-trainees/pharmacist-education-and-training

For further details or inquiries regarding placement opportunities, please feel free to contact us via email at studentplacements@gha.gi  We would be happy to assist you with any information you may need.