What happens when you introduce a classroom of primary school children to prosthetics and orthotics? Plenty of curiosity, creative ideas and some brilliant questions!
Francesca Makey, BAPO Career Outreach Officer, recently visited a primary school careers event, where children dressed up as the professionals they hoped to become. When she asked whether anyone knew what an orthotist was, only a few hands went up, a reminder of the opportunity we have to raise awareness of our profession.
Through a short presentation and the chance to handle and try on devices, Francesca introduced the children to the work of prosthetists and orthotists. The spring-loaded braces proved particularly popular! The children then drew their own prostheses or orthoses, impressing Francesca with their creativity and enthusiasm.
By the end of the session, the children had discovered two careers they might never have considered and learned how P&O professionals help people live more active and independent lives.
Reflecting on the visit, Francesca said:
“As part of the BAPO Career Outreach Team, we believe reaching school children is a great way to raise our profile and increase our workforce in the future. The more we can all attend these types of events the better chance we have, plus it is incredibly fulfilling and heart warming.”
At BAPO, we believe that introducing young people to prosthetics and orthotics can spark an interest that lasts well beyond the classroom.
Thank you to Francesca for sharing her passion and helping inspire the next generation.
Could you help put P&O on the careers map? Join our Career Outreach Team today! Contact enquiries@bapo.com for more information.