Pictured from left to right are Ciera Haig, Danylo Miroshnychenko and Tiegan Singleton.
Level 5–6 Health and Social Care students Ciera Haig, Danylo Miroshnychenko and Tiegan Singleton have gained valuable real-world experience during placements with the Royal Voluntary Service (RVS) throughout the 2025–26 academic year.
The placements, offered through an ongoing partnership between the College’s Health and Social Care Department and RVS, provide students with the opportunity to support adults with a diverse range of needs across the Borders. The initiative continues to play a key role in enhancing classroom learning through practical application in professional settings.
Before beginning their roles, the students completed a programme of online training to prepare them for the challenges and responsibilities of working in care environments. Since then, all three have made a positive contribution in their placements while developing essential skills for future careers.
Ciera highlighted the impact of the experience, saying:
“From my placement I have gained a better understanding of how to help adults with learning disabilities with socialising, a better understanding of what policies are in place to protect both the clients and the staff, and how having a positive attitude can impact their lives.”
Danylo reflected on the communication skills developed while supporting individuals with dementia. Danylo said:
“While volunteering at RVS, I gained knowledge and skills that are very helpful when communicating and working with people with dementia. While there, I enjoyed interacting with people, whether through conversation or even just facial expressions.”
Tiegan emphasised personal growth and relationship-building, adding:
“My placement has helped me develop a better understanding of how professionals work closely with individuals to support their needs and improve their quality of life. I have particularly enjoyed building relationships with the service users.”
The Royal Voluntary Service praised the students’ contributions, stating that they had been “truly wonderful” and wishing them success in their future careers.