Robert’s surgical spirit

Redundancy has led Robert Johnston towards a new career as an Operating Department Practioner by taking part in a new University of Teesside course.

Robert, 32, from Redcar, has just completed the first year of the two-year Diploma in Operating Department Practice. When qualified, Robert will be able to carry out the role of a fully trained theatre practioner and assist the surgeons and anaesthetists in a range of procedures.

Robert has completed a placement at Middlesbrough’s The James Cook University Hospital where he observed several operations and saw the classroom theory turned into practice.

Robert, a former steel worker, said: “I was made redundant from my production job at a local steel mill and was transferred to work in the mill’s health centre. I worked there for a year as a medic when I saw the advert for the Operating Department Practice course and I applied straight away. It was a big change for me to leave work and come back into full-time education, especially as I didn’t really work that hard in school! It’s a very friendly environment. We get a lot of support from the staff and you can always ask for help if you’re struggling with anything at all. I’ve enjoyed it a lot and I can’t wait for the second year.”

Robert, who is intending to work locally when qualified, is married to Julie, a qualified nurse and health visitor.

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