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Autumn 2022Lesley Kaengele wins NHS schools’ competition

A 10-year-old schoolgirl from St Gabriel’s RC Primary School in Castleton has won a top prize in a contest thanking NHS staff, while learning about the many careers it provides.

As part of the ‘Step into the NHS’ competition run by Health Education England, Lesley Kaengele created a rainbow poster with showing the diversity and range of health service staff with a ‘thank you’ message to the NHS.

Lesley was awarded the top prize for the north west region in the contest, which saw 916 entries from more than 1,080 pupils in 36 primary schools across England this year.

As well as encouraging students to challenge gender stereotyping in health professions, pupils had the chance to say ‘thank you’ to the NHS in their own personal and creative way.

In a special prize presentation assembly, Lesley received a certificate, a £25 Amazon voucher and an exciting goody bag.

Lesley said: “I learnt that the NHS is a lot bigger than it seems; it’s not just doctors and nurses but computer scientists, and cleaners, and they’re all as important as each other.

“My mum inspired me because she’s strong and puts her strengths into helping other people which inspires me to be just like her.

“To me, the NHS means a huge diverse army that helps everyone from all backgrounds without judgement.”

Lianne Powers, ward sister, Rochdale Infirmary said: “The artwork was outstanding and really showed the diversity of the NHS. Seeing how engaged and hearing how many of the children’s parents and family worked within the NHS was very humbling and made me feel proud to be a nurse within our local community.”

Health Education England runs the competition each year to raise awareness of over 350 career opportunities in the NHS, while supporting the career aspirations of young people in education.