Go Higher in healthcare handbook
Explore NHS careers and plan your next steps
The Go Higher in Healthcare guide helps you explore NHS careers, understand your study options, and start planning what comes next after school or college.
Healthcare is about more than doctors and nurses. There are hundreds of different roles, from mental health and midwifery to digital health, science, dentistry and management.
This guide shows you what’s out there and how you can get started.
What you’ll find inside
The guide is written in clear, simple language and includes:
- Easy-to-understand information about healthcare careers
- The difference between university and apprenticeships
- Entry requirements for different roles
- Subjects you may need at school or college
- Skills employers look for in healthcare
- Real student advice and experiences
- Information about financial support, including NHS Learning Support Funding
- Local Higher Education options across West Yorkshire
- Links to trusted national careers websites
You don’t need to have decided on a career already — this guide is here to help you explore your options.
Careers you can explore
Learn about a wide range of NHS and healthcare roles, including:
- Nursing and Midwifery
- Paramedics and Ambulance Services
- Allied Health Professionals (such as physiotherapy and radiography)
- Dentistry and Pharmacy
- Mental Health and Psychological Therapies
- Healthcare Science
- Digital health and Health Informatics
- Management and leadership
- Public Health
- Wider NHS support roles
Each section explains what the job involves and how people usually train for it.
Why choose healthcare?
Healthcare is a growing sector with strong job prospects. Many roles offer:
- Meaningful work helping others
- Clear progression routes
- Opportunities to specialise
- Support with training and study
- Careers across hospitals, communities and digital services
There really is a place for everyone.
Need extra support?
If you’re studying in West Yorkshire, Go Higher West Yorkshire works with local colleges and universities to support young people into Higher Education.
Speak to your school or college to find out what support is available.
