At a glance

Louise Barnard, a former student of Coleg Cambria in North Wales, has become a resident doctor in the NHS after completing her medical degree at Newcastle University and gaining experience in Vietnam. She aims to specialise in oncology and is currently undergoing Foundation Training in Glasgow while also studying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education. Her journey highlights the impact of her education at Coleg Cambria and her advice to students is to be ambitious and proactive in their career pursuits.

A former Coleg Cambria student whose medical journey has taken her from North Wales to hospitals in Vietnam is now working as a resident doctor in the NHS, with ambitions for a career in oncology.

Louise Barnard, 25, from Gwaenysgor, near Prestatyn, studied A Level Mathematics, Chemistry, Physics and the Welsh Baccalaureate at Cambria’s Deeside Sixth before progressing to Medicine and Surgery (MBBS) at Newcastle University. Her degree included a medical elective in Vietnam, where she gained hands-on experience in a very different healthcare system while also taking the opportunity to travel across South East Asia.

Having successfully completed her medical degree, Louise is now undertaking Foundation Training as a resident doctor in Glasgow. She hopes to spend time working overseas before applying for Internal Medicine Training, with oncology her long-term career goal. Alongside her clinical role, Louise is studying for a Postgraduate Certificate in Medical Education with the University of Warwick, developing skills for the teaching responsibilities that form an important part of a doctor’s career.

Reflecting on her journey, Louise said: “Although medical school had its challenges, it was an incredibly rewarding experience that prepared me well for my career so far. “One particular highlight was the opportunity to undertake a medical elective in Vietnam which allowed me to experience a very different healthcare system and culture, as well as travel around South East Asia.”

Louise credits her years at Coleg Cambria with helping to build the independence and confidence she needed to take the next step into higher education.

“Looking back, I feel that Coleg Cambria helped develop my independence and confidence as an adult learner, which made the transition to university much smoother. “I would highly recommend studying there and am very grateful to the teachers who encouraged and supported me throughout my A Levels and during my university applications.”

She added: “I’d also like to wish Deeside Sixth a very happy 10th anniversary - it’s brilliant to see how far it’s come.”

And her advice to students considering their own next steps is to be ambitious and make the most of every opportunity.

“To anyone who is unsure about their career path; aim high, be proactive in seeking opportunities to gain experience, ask plenty of questions, and find a mentor who can offer guidance and support along the way.”

Mim Riddell, Head of Deeside Sixth and Assistant Principal for Academic Studies, said: “Louise’s achievements are a wonderful example of what can be accomplished through dedication, resilience and a genuine passion for learning. “Throughout her time at Deeside Sixth she demonstrated the commitment and ambition needed to pursue one of the most demanding university courses, and it has been fantastic to see her progress into a career where she is already making a real difference to people’s lives.”

Editorial insight

Stories highlighting individual career journeys can offer practical encouragement to students considering their next steps, especially when they demonstrate the value of early academic support and international experience. Louise Barnard’s route from North Wales to a medical career in the NHS, with time spent in Vietnam, provides a relatable example for those weighing up higher education or medical training.

While individual achievements may not carry sector-wide significance, they often resonate locally and within educational communities, particularly as schools and colleges mark milestones such as Deeside Sixth’s tenth anniversary. For prospective students and their families, such accounts can help to clarify the pathways available and the importance of building confidence and independence before entering demanding professions.

Story ideas and journalist angles

Human interest

Impact of Coleg Cambria’s Educational Approach on Alumni Success

The success of Louise Barnard, now a resident doctor in the NHS, highlights the impact of Coleg Cambria's educational approach in preparing students for higher education and professional careers.

Target audience regional and education publications Story potential 6/10 Human interest

North Wales Student’s Path to NHS Via Vietnam Highlights Diverse Medical Training

Louise Barnard's journey from North Wales to Vietnam and back to the NHS illustrates the diverse training paths available to medical students, showcasing how international electives can enrich medical education.

Target audience education and health publications Story potential 7/10