We interviewed current student Josephine to find out more about her experience as an Operating Department Practice student so far……

1st year ODP student Josephine

Why did you choose to study ODP at BU?

I chose to study Operating Department Practice at BU because of the new facilities that we have available to us and that the lecturers are current practitoners. Since the career is so hands-on, it is really important to be learning from those that are in current practice and are following the latest guidelines, as well as gaining confidence in simulation before going out to placement. At BU, the team really acknowledge this, which made it the right place for me.

What was your favourite placement so far and why? 

My favourite placement was the Surgical one that I undertook in February 2024, because I was able to start putting into practice the skills that I had been learning at university.

How important is it that the academics teaching on ODP are current practitioners? 

I think that it is extremely important that the academics teaching the degree are current practitioners. There are always advancements and changes in practice that are happening for our profession, so being able to learn from those who are at the forefront of this is extremely important for our learning. This makes us have a better understanding of what we are doing and ultimately makes us better practitioners for our patients.

How would you describe the work of an ODP for those who aren’t familiar with the job role……

Operating Department Practitioner (ODPs) are registered healthcare professionals that specialise in Anaesthesia, Surgery and Post-Anaesthesia. We support the majority of what goes on in theatre, work in a multidisciplinary team, ensure patient safety throughout their perioperative journey and advocate for the patient’s needs.

What advice would you give someone who wanted to apply for an ODP course? 

I would say make sure that you really understand what we do as ODPs and how intense the course is, especially around placement.

Want to see what a day in the life of a student studying Operating Department Practice?  Head over to our Instagram and click on highlights called ODP Takeover Day.

Also, if you are interested in speaking to our academics about our BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice or our apprenticeship option, BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice (Degree Apprenticeship) then come and meet the team at our next Open Day.

Find out more

BSc (Hons) Operating Department Practice