A health student from East Lancashire was given the exciting opportunity to undergo a work placement in the Czech Republic as part of her studies.

Second and third year students at Edge Hill University have the opportunity to apply for placements with health services around the globe, providing them with a rare chance to experience how their chosen professions operate abroad.

This opportunity has not been possible for the last three years due to the pandemic.

Katie Duxbury, a paramedic practice student from Blackburn, spent two weeks in Brno with the Emergency Medical Service in the South Moravian region of the Czech Republic.

She said: “I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Brno, it taught me how to approach patients in different ways and expanded my knowledge on treatment available to patients.

“My trip allowed me to see differing practices between the UK and the Czech Republic.

"It was interesting to see the differences in call-outs and speak to members of the ambulance services both in control and working on the frontline.”

Students studying paramedic practice and operating department practice have also Germany, South Africa and Finland to take part in international electives for the first time since before the pandemic.

This has been possible through funding from the government’s Turing Scheme and the university’s Student Opportunity Fund.

The university is also exploring the possibility of expanding further with placements in Helsinki and Toronto.

Andy Kirk, head of department for allied health professionals, said: “We’ve been told by students that his has been one of the best experiences of their lives, these interactions really motivate students and clinicians alike to enhance their careers and self-development.

“And it gives us an immense sense of pride and satisfaction that these placements can have such a huge impact on someone’s education and professional career.”