The nine BTEC National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care (Health Studies) students were accompanied on the trip by SERC Curriculum Manager Nikki Rainey and SERC tutor Shauna McCabe, alongside tutors and students from several other courses.
During their time in Bali, Health and Social Care students gained invaluable insight into global healthcare practices. They visited YPK Bali - a local non-profit learning disability centre, which supports individuals with physical disabilities. “We were given an excellent tour of the facilities and had the opportunity to meet staff members, volunteers, and service users”, says student Emma Elliott; “Following the tour, we attended an insightful presentation about the range of services the centre provides people with disabilities in Bali. I found the experience invaluable and inspiring, particularly seeing how dedicated the staff and volunteers were to empowering individuals who may otherwise receive little or no support from their families or the government.”
“We also visited another non-profit organisation, Bali Bersama Bisa”, Emma continues, “which has played a significant role in improving the future of mental health support in Indonesia. On arrival, we took part in a mindfulness exercise which was initially outside of my comfort zone, but it encouraged me and the other students to reflect on our own feelings and mental wellbeing. We then listened to an engaging talk about the cultural stigmas surrounding mental health in Indonesia and learned how the organisation provides free mental health services, including Indonesia’s only suicide prevention hotline, mental health assessments, and support groups.
“Both visits highlighted to our healthcare group how limited the financial and social support available to these organisations is compared with what we are accustomed to in the UK. Despite these challenges, the passion, resilience, and commitment shown by everyone working in the organisations we visited was incredibly motivating and demonstrated the importance of compassion, advocacy, and person-centred care. These are values we will carry forward into our own future careers in healthcare.”
From a cultural and social perspective, students participated in a wide range of activities, including dance performances, team-building days at Bali Kuno Camp, painting workshops, and the Pengerupukan celebration. They also experienced the tranquillity of Nyepi Day, which allowed for both group and personal reflection. Additional visits included Tenganan Village, one of the oldest villages in Bali, as well as trips to local rice fields and markets.
SERC Curriculum Manager Nikki Rainey comments, “For many health students, this was their first experience of long-haul travel, and they greatly valued the opportunity. The trip has created lasting memories and broadened their perspectives both personally and professionally. Notably, the students who participated have since received offers from Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University to study Nursing. It is anticipated that this experience will significantly support their future careers in healthcare.”
Emma concludes, “Overall, the trip to Bali was an unforgettable experience and a fantastic opportunity to learn about and live in a completely different part of the world.”
The Turing Scheme provides funding for students to undertake a study or work placement across the world, contributing to the UK Government’s commitment to a Global Britain, by helping organisations such as SERC to enhance existing international links and forge new relationships. The delivery partner for the Turing Scheme is the Department for Education (UK).
