Windsor Academy Trust, Trinity Point, High St, Halesowen B63 3HY
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Building NHS Partnerships to Empower Young Minds: Civitas Academy’s Collaboration with NHS Berkshire

REAch2 Academy Trust, comprising of 62 schools across England, is committed to ensuring that every school builds meaningful, lasting partnerships with local NHS Trusts.

With our Trust Central Team identifying the Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) and NHS Trusts relevant to each school, a clear starting point for collaboration has been established across our 10 clusters. Civitas Academy, part of Cluster 9 and served by the Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Berkshire West ICB, has taken significant strides in forging this partnership. Their local NHS Trusts – Berkshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust and Royal Berks NHS Foundation Trust - have engaged in meaningful dialogue and collaborative planning.

The school’s core focus has been to support children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) in exploring future career pathways, while broadening all children’s understanding of health and NHS careers. Through productive connection with the Royal Berks NHS Foundation Trust’s Patient Experience Team, Civitas initiated an inspiring partnership, beginning with an introductory meeting where the school shared its vision for collaboration. This rapidly progressed to school visits, including engaging conversations between NHS representatives, school staff, and children.

One of the flagship initiatives emerging from this partnership is the Junior Carers Programme, a dynamic project led by Royal Berks Foundation Trust. The programme, introduced by an Associate Chief Nurse to Year 4 and Year 5 children, offers a unique blend of learning and inspiration. With only 12 places available, children were invited to apply for the opportunity to:

•Meet the Chief Executive and understand hospital leadership

• Explore the Emergency Department and learn about responsible A&E use

• Witness the Pharmacy robot in action and understand its role in patient care

• Gain insights into heart health and practice basic resuscitation Learn about oral health and hand cleanliness

Create sleep packs for patients, learning about the role of rest in recovery This programme not only educates but empowers children to become Young Health Ambassadors inspiring them to consider futures within the NHS while also promoting wellbeing in their communities.