As part of the GDST family of schools, our aspiring medics were invited to take part in Oxford High GDST’s 2021 Virtual Medicine Conference on March 16th.

Aimed at students in Year 10 – 12 who were considering a career in a medical or dental discipline, the online event attracted over 500 students from 25 schools. Participants heard from 33 speakers –  both individual doctors, dentists and medical students and also speakers from healthcare organisations and leading medical schools. 

The day started with a welcome from Oxford High’s Headmistress, Mrs Gardiner Legge and OHS alumna Dr Warrell who spoke of the importance of transferable skills in becoming a well-rounded doctor and person. We also heard about applying to medical schools and dentistry from Sheffield University, who shared valuable information and advice to students. Brighton and Sussex Medical School gave a presentation on ‘A Journey through the NHS’ with a focus on the range of different healthcare professions that exist and how they all work together for the patient. Cochrane UK also gave an introduction to Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) and why it is important to question the evidence behind health claims.

In the afternoon, there were some excellent panel sessions, with discussions covering a wide range of related topics from dealing with stress to handling medical school interviews.

Our own students found it invaluable and we are very grateful to Oxford for organising and sharing such an excellent event:

“I think it was a great and innovative way to introduce the medical world to us. Thank you for giving us such an amazing opportunity!”

“The day was so informative but the part of the day that I would say was the most beneficial was the explanation of the application process as admittedly I knew little about the process, but now feel more secure in the system of application and what I need to achieve.”

These careers are not just jobs, working in a healthcare setting is a privilege and entering the profession is a big decision. Ask your questions, gather all the information you need to inform your next steps. Great advice from @Careers_OHS opening #VirtualMedicineDayConference pic.twitter.com/U3rMdy0W4j

— Amy Bailey (@digitalGDST) March 16, 2021