The National Breast Imaging Academy recently welcomed a group of T-level Health students from Trafford College to a dedicated breast imaging careers workshop at the NBIA training suite at the Nightingale Centre, Wythenshawe Hospital. The workshop, held on Wednesday 5th February 2025, was designed to introduce students to the diverse and rewarding careers available within breast imaging and the wider breast care team.
The event forms part of a broader commitment by the NBIA to support early career engagement and inspire the next generation of healthcare professionals. T-levels are two-year qualifications for 16–19 year-olds, combining classroom learning with industry placements, and are designed to provide a direct route into employment or further training in the healthcare sector.
Led by Lyndsay Kinnear, Radiographic Lead for the NBIA, the day began with an overview of breast imaging and the vital work carried out at the Nightingale Centre. Students then heard from Consultant Radiologist, Dr Mary Wilson about the differences between breast screening, symptomatic services, and family history clinics.
The interactive aspect of the day allowed students to explore real-world imaging through group sessions in breast ultrasound and image review, covering mammograms, ultrasound and MRI. These interactive sessions gave students the opportunity to learn how breast imaging plays a central role in breast cancer diagnosis and treatment planning.
In the afternoon, the spotlight shifted to the wider multidisciplinary team, highlighting the many different roles involved in delivering breast care services. From radiology, nursing and physiotherapy to admin, research, cancer services and surgery, a wide range of professionals shared insights into their careers and how they contribute to patient care. The session ended with a powerful reflection from a person with lived experience, helping students to understand the human impact of their potential future work.
Feedback from students and staff at Trafford College was overwhelmingly positive. By offering an inside look at the variety of roles within breast imaging and the wider NHS, the workshop aimed to raise awareness of careers that students might not have otherwise considered.
Dr Mary Wilson, NBIA Programme Lead commented:
“We’re proud to be supporting T-level students as they take their first steps into healthcare careers. The workshop was a fantastic opportunity to showcase the exciting and varied roles within breast imaging and to encourage young people to consider joining this rewarding field.”