Jane Statham - Ipswich High School 1964 - 1970

Radiography

Radiography is a versatile and diverse career with excellent job security and opportunities to work in other countries.

I trained at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge when the entry requirements were more geared to a persons suitability than outstanding academic qualifications. Now, three good A levels are required and training leads to a BSc.

Radiographers are in great demand, so that on qualifying you can choose which geographical area to work in. For my first job I chose Bristol Royal Infirmary, doing general x-ray work including working in the accident and emergency department and taking part in the 24 hour on-call service. Whilst at Bristol I had the opportunity to work in the Nuclear Medicine Department, the area in which I later chose to specialise.

I accompanied my husband to California and was able to work in Oakland a few miles from San Francisco. Working abroad as a radiographer for one or two years is an exciting way of seeing the world. Australia is a popular destination where working holiday visas are readily available for radiographers.

On my return to the UK, I took up a post at The Hammersmith Hospital specialising in Nuclear Medicine. This gave me experience in research and teaching as well as gaining a post-graduate qualification.

After the birth of my children, I worked mainly unsociable hours in order to spend time at home in the day. I participated in on-call for the special care baby unit and whilst breast-feeding would take along my baby if a feed time was approaching.
I was able to increase my hours as the children grew up and now work full-time again.

My current job involves treating patients with radionuclides and gives me a lot of patient contact that I thoroughly enjoy. I have also taken on some teaching to student radiographers, nurses and junior doctors.

Radiography covers several areas – ultrasound, x-ray, magnetic resonance imaging and nuclear medicine. Once they have gained grounding in all areas most radiographers choose to specialise and go on to gain post-graduate qualifications in that area. There are even openings for animal loving radiographers to work in veterinary practice particularly with horses.

Post-graduate qualifications can be achieved through day-release courses and  funding is usually available.

Good interpersonal skills are essential for this profession. I would recommend radiography as versatile career for someone looking to work with people.