Age: 27
Job Title: Psychiatric Nurse, Deputy Ward Manager
County and Country of Residence: Kent, UK
Years attended Gad’s: 2004-2007
House: Wellington
Contact Nathan Vasudaven via Gad’s Hill School
Brief details of job: I am a Deputy Ward Manager of an acute psychiatric ward – dealing daily with those in acute mental distress and helping towards their recovery, building therapeutic relationships and often intense conflict resolutions. I work primarily with those with psychotic disorders assisting with the management of the ward.
Attributes needed for this job: A good balance of constant calmness and vigilance – being able to maintain firm boundaries and safety on the ward, while also demonstrating patience, compassion thus creating a safe but relaxed atmosphere. Strong confidence and self-belief especially when dealing with violence and volatile situations – which occur regularly.
How did your time at Gad’s prepare you for your career?: It allowed me to build my confidence (which was at its lowest point before I started) in a nurturing environment. Making fantastic friends and meeting role model teachers who made you feel accepted for who you are. In my job, self-awareness and unwavering confidence is the key to running a ward – these skills were developed at Gad’s for which I am very grateful.
Being made Vice Head Boy was a huge confidence boost which has helped take me through life.
