Our health system is made up of much more than just doctors and nurses, and a recent careers forum helped increase awareness of the different careers that support patient care including radiology, pathology, physiotherapy, speech language therapy and more.
The Allied Health, Scientific and Technical Careers Forum took place in Kaitaia and Whangārei, with 212 senior students attending the full-day forum. The Careers Forum was made possible with funding from Health Fund PLUS, a partnership between Health NZ | Te Whatu Ora and Northland Community Foundation. The grant helped cover the cost of venue hire so that the forum had enough space for presentations and activities with large groups of students.
The Careers Forum gave students direct exposure to a wide range of health career pathways through hands-on workshops and interaction with health professionals. Students left with an increased awareness and understanding of allied health careers, with 98% of surveyed students reporting improved understanding of health career options and 87% reporting they were more likely to consider a career in health following attendance. Students particularly valued the interactive nature of the workshops, which helped them connect classroom learning with real-world career opportunities and broadened their understanding of careers beyond traditional doctor and nursing pathways.
Daniel Cherrington, workforce coordinator for the Allied Health, Scientific and Technical Team said, “we are grateful for the support provided by Health Fund PLUS, which enabled these forums to take place. The events achieved strong participation and positive outcomes across both regions”.
The Careers Forum also contributed to workforce pathway development in Te Tai Tokerau by inspiring students to consider future employment in the local health sector. This will benefit our wider Northland community as it helps to develop a sustainable, local workforce to support our health system.
Health Fund PLUS is a partnership between Northland Community Foundation and Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora Te Tai Tokerau, focusing on managing donations from our community and raising funds for projects beyond government funding. If you’d like to give back, and support initiatives like this one, get in touch with our Community Engagement Manager Jane Stearns on 021 558 224.
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