PRIMARY school friends from West Craven who later studied together at Nelson and Colne College are now working at the frontline of the NHS during the coronavirus pandemic.

Jasmin Wilson, 21, and Ellie Smith, also 21, both attended the same primary school in Barnoldswick, and studied health and social work professions at the college between 2015 and 2017, before progressing on to the University of Leeds to take up places on the same adult nursing degree course.

Now, Jasmin, who still lives in Barnoldswick, and Ellie, who lives in Colne, find themselves together again during a year out of their studies to build up experience, and are working as clinical support workers on Covid-19 wards at Leeds General Infirmary.

Although they went their separate ways for secondary school, with Jasmin going to West Craven High School, Barnoldswick, and Ellie to Park High School, Colne, the pair say that their enduring friendship and passion for health and social care is mirrored by camaraderie, support and teamwork that is on show on a daily basis between health professional colleagues at the hospital.

Jasmin said: “I began my year of work on a stroke rehabilitation ward, but like the ward Ellie is on, I am also caring for Covid-19 patients at the moment too. My colleagues are brilliant, and while it is challenging work, it is very fulfilling.”

She added: “I’ve wanted to be a nurse ever since my mum was seriously ill a few years ago, and seeing the level of care she received during that period really inspired me to go down the nursing career pathway.

“The health and social work professions course at college was fantastic, and my tutors are very knowledgeable. The course is practical which I liked, and through it I was also part of the NHS Health Cadets. This provided me with the confidence, insight and experience I needed before progressing on to university.”

Ellie added: “The ward I’m on is normally a colorectal ward, but the patients we are currently treating are Covid-19 positive. It’s a challenging time, but I work with a great team of colleagues who support each other and we have adapted well to the situation.”

Applicants looking to apply to Nelson and Colne College still have the time. Visit www.nelson.ac.uk or contact the Admissions Team on 01282 440272.