HOPEFUL students are showing interest in professions currently deemed "key" during the coronavirus outbreak.

During a virtual open day organised by the University of Sunderland this month, academics and staff spoke to hundreds of potential students and many showing interest in health and wellbeing programmes, including nursing, medicine, and paramedic science, as well as journalism and education. All of which are playing essential roles in the fight against Covid-19.

Academics at the university said interest in the professions highlights a growing appreciation of their work.

Professor Lynne McKenna, head of education at the university, said: “There has never been a better time to enter the teaching profession.

“Whether schools completely re-open to all pupils in September or we see a managed move to re-opening, one thing is clear; we need and will continue to need teachers.

“Alongside this, in February 2020, Gavin Williamson, the education secretary announced a pay increase to £30,000 as a starting salary for teachers by 2022-23. This move will make entry rates for teachers among the most competitive in the graduate labour market.

“During the past few weeks, we have witnessed the emergence of a new-found respect and admiration for teachers; whether this is from those parents attempting to home school or from parents of key workers who are grateful that our schools have remained open, enabling them to carry out their vital work.

“The teaching profession, as ever has risen to the challenge, providing selfless public service in these extraordinary times.

“We know that one of the key things that helps people feel safe during uncertain times is connection with other people and our schools are providing a vital service in helping children and parents feel connected to a wider community.

“It is my hope, that when the country emerges from the coronavirus lockdown, that this generation of teachers and school leaders will continue to experience new levels of public support and respect. I firmly believe that they will have the power to influence the future of education in ways that really would have been inconceivable only a few weeks ago.”

Lee Hall, head of media and communications, says it's no surprise interest in media and journalism has risen.

He said: "As key workers, reporters and broadcasters are charged with seeking out the truth and telling the stories that matter. Journalists can amplify important messages and help to keep our NHS heroes safe. Young people want to be valued and to make a difference in society and they recognise a career in the media can give them that. Interest in media and journalism will only grow as the need for good, accurate information increases.”

The University of Sunderland has more than 2,000 students studying health and wellbeing-related programmes.

Sue Brent, head of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, said: “A career in health can be fast-paced and filled with challenges. You never experience the same day twice and helping people, often at the most difficult times of their lives, can be one of the most rewarding things we do."