Band 9 Speaking IELTS Test | Non-native speaker

Summary

In this engaging interview, nurse Nancy shares her journey of relocating from Kenya to the UK and her experiences working in the NHS. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of adapting to academic writing, the intricacies of transitioning between jobs under visa sponsorship, and the supportive environment within the NHS. Nancy highlights the cultural similarities she found in the UK compared to her previous experience in Sweden, emphasizing the enriching multicultural atmosphere of London. She also encourages others interested in nursing in the UK to connect with her through her social media platforms, where she shares insights about her professional life.

Takeaways

• 😀 The speaker feels confident in their academic abilities, including essay writing and class presentations, after studying the UK's referencing system.
• 😀 Transitioning to working in healthcare in the UK involved adapting to different rules, particularly regarding patient care and medication administration.
• 😀 Working in a nursing home provided the speaker with an introduction to the UK healthcare system, emphasizing the importance of patient rights and safeguarding.
• 😀 The NHS offers a supportive work environment, with collaborative teamwork among nurses and doctors, especially in critical care settings.
• 😀 The speaker appreciates the career progression opportunities within the NHS, highlighting that the hospital covers their university tuition.
• 😀 Changing jobs in the UK healthcare system requires careful planning due to visa sponsorship complexities, especially when transitioning between employers.
• 😀 Cultural adaptation was easier for the speaker due to previous experience living in Sweden and speaking English, though others may face more challenges.
• 😀 London’s multicultural environment enhances the speaker's experience, allowing them to meet and connect with people from diverse backgrounds.
• 😀 The speaker encourages others interested in nursing in the UK to follow their journey and insights through their YouTube channel.
• 😀 Overall, the speaker’s experience reflects both challenges and positive aspects of working in the UK healthcare system, emphasizing adaptability and support.

Q & A

What challenges did the speaker face when transitioning to academic writing in the UK?

The speaker initially struggled with understanding the academic writing style and referencing system, which were unfamiliar to her. However, she overcame these challenges by reading and understanding the material, ultimately achieving good marks.

How did the speaker's experience in a nursing home prepare her for her role in the NHS?

Working in a nursing home allowed her to learn about safeguarding and patients' rights, which are crucial in the UK healthcare system. This induction experience made her transition to the NHS smoother.

What support does the NHS provide to its staff?

The NHS offers a supportive environment where staff can seek help from colleagues and managers. There are also opportunities for career progression and financial support for further education.

What logistical challenges did the speaker encounter when switching jobs within the healthcare system?

The speaker faced challenges related to visa sponsorship, needing to discontinue her current visa and apply for a new one with her new employer. This required careful timing in giving her resignation to avoid employment gaps.

How did the speaker's previous experience in Sweden influence her transition to the UK?

Having lived in Sweden, the speaker was already familiar with adjusting to a new culture and language. This prior experience made her transition to the UK easier, especially since she spoke English.

What was the speaker's perspective on cultural adjustment when moving to the UK?

The speaker found it relatively easy to adapt to life in the UK due to the similarities between Swedish and British cultures. However, she noted that friends from Africa and Asia faced longer adjustment periods.

What benefits does the speaker see in working in a diverse city like London?

The speaker enjoys the international community in London, appreciating the opportunity to meet people from various backgrounds, which enriches her personal and professional life.

What advice does the speaker have for others considering moving to the UK for work?

The speaker suggests having an open mind and being prepared for cultural differences. She emphasizes that adaptability is key to easing the transition.

What kind of content does the speaker share on her YouTube channel?

The speaker shares her experiences as a nurse in the UK, including insights on relocating, working in healthcare, and living in London, aimed at helping others who are considering similar paths.

How does the speaker view her career progression in the NHS?

The speaker feels optimistic about her career progression in the NHS, noting that she has been supported in her educational pursuits without having to pay for her university fees.