The Student and Work Placement Scheme (Swops) that aims to train Filipino healthcare workers for possible deployment to United Kingdom (UK) was recently launched. Representatives from the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE), British Embassy and the British Council attended the official launching.

The program that was initiated by the executives of the International Student Advisors, Ltd Makati office and was supported by UK education officials will give Filipino healthcare professionals the opportunity to study and obtain additional degrees in the UK.

They can either enroll in a course on Health and Social Care or a combined NVQ/First Line Management qualification. The two-year course requires students to work as caregivers. The training and knowledge they will acquire will give them the chance to be hired as a nurse or caregiver. This can lead to permanent residence in the UK.

Students will shoulder the initial placements but the salary they will receive as caregivers will be enough to subsidize their study and living expenses in UK.

Passing the Nursing Board Exam is not required in this program but applicants will have to undergo screening and interview. The UK degree would paved the way for better opportunities overseas. The degree will increase one’s chance to be hired not only in UK but also in Canada, Australia and New Zealand.