During the October break, Anneke (S6) volunteered on a medical placement in Arusha, Tanzania through Plan My Gap Year. Based in Meru district hospital, she worked in the paediatric and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit wards and also had the opportunity to observe a range of surgical procedures.

Speaking about her experience as part of her Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Anneke shared: “Working alongside doctors, nurses, and medical students gave me an insight into the realities of global healthcare challenges. There was a larger language barrier than I had anticipated, so I had to adapt quickly. This allowed me to develop my non-verbal communication skills and I can say that I have come home knowing more Swahili than I thought I ever could.

“Travelling alone (and being the youngest there by over a year) was really daunting but it turned out to be one of the most unforgettable experiences in my life. This placement confirmed that medicine is the path that I was to aim for. I wholeheartedly recommend this kind of experience to anyone - it pushes you out of your comfort zone and gives you a whole new perspective of the world and yourself.”

Mr Hardie, Head of S6, said: “Anneke’s willingness to step outside her comfort zone and gain valuable experience in an area in which she hopes to study demonstrates impressive maturity and determination, and the personal growth she has shown through this placement will undoubtedly serve her well in her continued journey toward a career in medicine.”