Our Level 2 Health and Social Care students have completed a unique six-week work experience placement focused on mental and sexual health, delivered in collaboration with NAZ, a charity dedicated to supporting minority communities around these issues.

Led by Avanti Arseculeratne, Sexual Health Programmes Manager at NAZ, the experience gave students the opportunity to explore key topics affecting young people today. From understanding the stigma around mental health to promoting safe sexual wellbeing, the sessions blended classroom learning with real-world application.

Throughout the programme, students developed and delivered a student-led survey aimed at gathering insights from their peers across the college. This initiative encouraged open conversations, helping to inform the way South Bank Colleges can continue to support its community with tailored, youth-centred health information.

By engaging directly with an expert-led programme, students gained confidence, communication skills, and an informed perspective on how to approach sensitive topics, all of which are vital for their future roles in the care sector.

This placement was more than just experience. It was an introduction to advocacy, professional responsibility, and the importance of culturally competent care.