DOZENS of Peter Symonds students are working on the front line during the coronavirus crisis – including Rosie Goodings.

Rosie works in a local nursing home as a care assistant and has been working three 12-hour shifts a week throughout lockdown caring for residents, including those with diagnosed COVID-19.

“I have even been the only carer on one of the floors when we were particularly short-staffed," she said.

"I stepped up to this level of responsibility and did not mind being so busy. I have surprised myself with my ability to just get on with their personal care, always putting their comfort, dignity and needs before any immature feelings of squeamishness that some people might feel.

The teenager will study nursing a Southampton University and has an interview soon.

Rosie added: "My job is very rewarding and has taught me that I like to do something which really makes a difference. I am looking forward to both sides of a nursing degree and starting my journey to a lifelong career.”

Hilary Griffiths, head of health and social care at the Peter Symonds college, said: "Rosie is someone whose personal and academic skills, insight, ability to self-reflect, confidence and values make her an ideal candidate to study nursing at university.

"Several Symonds students studying Health and Social Care BTEC or CTEC are currently working in the community in care homes, visiting individuals through jobs with care agencies and working on wards in hospital and we are proud of them all. They are a true reflection of how well individuals develop whilst studying this subject.”