Classroom to care transformation: The use of mannequin simulation to boost confidence, autonomy and psychological wellbeing in T-level health education

VANOJAN MANICKANADARAJAH, HEALTH AND SOCIAL CARE, SOUTH AND CITY COLLEGE BIRMINGHAM, UK One of the top priorities in the further education (FE) sector is the preparation of learners for industry-based placements; however, most learners experience a wide gap between their theoretical knowledge and its practical application. This is similarly experienced by T-level health learners who are entering into the healthcare industry for the first time through their placements. Rossiter et al.’s (2023) study showed that allied health students experience anxiety, a reduction in confidence and unreliability, which hinders the application of their theoretical knowledge to their healthcare practice, especially for learners aged 16 to 19 years old, who have had much less exposure to healthcare sector work. The professional competency required by the healthcare sector not only relies on technical knowledge, but also requires learners to have excellent communication skills, a resilient nature and au