A ten-year-old girl has been named London’s winner in an annual contest to help young people consider a career in the NHS.

Amelie Croke, who lives in Barnet and attends Blessed Dominic Catholic School, used her artistic skills to create a decorative floor design saying thank you to NHS workers.

She scooped top prize in the capital of the Step Into the NHS primary schools competitions, and won vouchers to spend.

This year saw 1,871 entries from more than 3,000 pupils in 273 primary schools throughout England, which allowed pupils to not only learn about career options in the NHS, but to give them a chance in thanking NHS staff for their work during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The judges were A&E doctor and TV presenter Dr Ronx, professor of careers education Tristram Hooley and teacher trainer Hannah Wilson.

Miss Croke said: “Entering the competition I learned more about the NHS. I found painting the rocks was really fun as it was a nice thing to do during lockdown. I'm proud of what the NHS have done for us and for risking their lives to help us.”

Class teacher Heather Ford added: “The 'Step into the NHS' competition offered the children a change to the normal home learning we had been doing during lockdown. This offered them the opportunity to research independently, and present their information using their creativity.

“Many children took part and enjoyed working with their family on a project that was so current and topical. They relished the opportunity to thank the NHS in their own unique way.”

The competition is returning for the 2020-21 school year with a brand-new look designed to increase its appeal to students across the country.

Developed in partnership with teachers, the Step Into The NHS website includes a careers quiz, real-life stories from NHS staff, work experience tips and learning resources to help young people explore the hundreds of roles within the NHS.

To learn more visit: www.stepintothenhs.nhs.uk