North Shropshire College in Oswestry is proud to highlight the achievements of Ellie, a Level 3 Health and Social Care student, who recently completed a successful work placement with Connect For Life, a Charitable Incorporated Organisation supporting older people in the local community.

Founded in October 2016, Connect For Life was born from a shared vision between founders Alison and Carolyn, both former NHS professionals. Their dream shaped over years of conversations and cups of coffee was to create a high-quality day centre for older people, offering meaningful activities, companionship, and specialist support, including for individuals living with dementia.

During her placement, Ellie volunteered across a wide range of day-to-day activities, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the health and social care sector. Her responsibilities included food preparation, supporting stimulating activities, cleaning, and most importantly, providing social interaction and emotional support to participants. Ellie played an active role in engaging individuals living with dementia, helping to create a welcoming, safe, and inclusive environment.

Reflecting on her experience, Ellie said:

“During my time at Connect For Life, I engaged in activities with participants and got to know them on a personal level. This widened my understanding of how to support those with specific needs, whilst also building relationships and trust with them. I would highly recommend this placement and couldn’t recommend a better team to have worked with.”

Ellie’s time at Connect For Life has strengthened her passion for working in health and social care. She now hopes to progress to university or begin a health and social care apprenticeship after completing her studies at North Shropshire College.

Lecturer of Health and Social Care, Flavia said:

“A large part of health and social care is about developing people skills.  We really appreciate the opportunities provided by organisations like Connect for Life, in offering work placements to our students. It gives them a valuable insight into supporting people with a range of additional needs as part of a team.

This is Ellie's second work placement, and she has had lovely feedback from both staff and clients.  It has really boosted her confidence and helped bring the classroom theory to life.”

Staff at both North Shropshire College and Connect For Life have praised Ellie’s dedication, compassion, and professionalism throughout her placement, highlighting her as a positive role model for future students considering work placements in care settings.

This partnership reflects North Shropshire College’s ongoing commitment to providing students with real-world experience, helping them build practical skills, confidence, and a deeper understanding of careers in health, social care, and community support.

To find out more about Health and Social Care courses at North Shropshire College please visit: North Shropshire College - HLNSC