NHS chief inspires health and social care learners at South Staffordshire College
March 2026
Health and Social Care and Access to HE students at both Tamworth and Cannock College were given a unique insight into careers within the health and social care sector today from Mark Axcell, Managing Director of Staffordshire and Stoke on Trent Health and Care Collaborative.
Mark, who is a former student of South Staffordshire College and recently received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of Wolverhampton, spent time at our Tamworth College this morning before travelling to Cannock College in the afternoon to deliver a special guest lecture.
Mark shared his own career journey, from starting out as an apprentice to becoming a senior leader within the NHS and over ten years as a Chief Executive.
During his talk, Mark spoke openly about his own route into the health and care sector, explaining how he began his career through an apprenticeship, completing a BTEC and choosing not to attend university. He reflected on the realities of working in health and care, sharing what surprised him most after joining the sector and how his understanding of the role and its impact grew over time. Mark went on to outline how he progressed his career, highlighting the importance of life long learning and development in health and care and always remaining open to new challenges.
Looking ahead, he spoke about what the NHS needs now and in the future, emphasising the growing demand for skilled, compassionate professionals and the vital role today’s students will play in shaping services for years to come. Mark also offered practical advice on how to build a long and rewarding career in health and care, from developing resilience and confidence to taking pride in making a difference to people’s lives.
The guest session concluded with a lively question-and-answer discussion, giving students the opportunity to seek advice, explore career pathways, and gain further insight from one of the sector’s senior leaders.
Mark also spoke passionately about the value and impact of working in the sector, encouraging students to see the wide range of opportunities available to them. Mark said “Health and care is such a rewarding career. It makes a difference to all our lives, I was delighted to be spend time with the health and care students at South Staffordshire College, and be able to share my own career journey, experiences and hopefully helping them to have a long and rewarding career in health and care.”
Students from both campuses engaged enthusiastically, asking questions about career progression, leadership, apprenticeships and the future of the NHS workforce. Many found Mark’s non-traditional route into senior leadership particularly inspiring, reinforcing the message that there are multiple pathways to success in health and care.
The visit highlights South Staffordshire College’s strong links with regional employers and its focus on preparing students for meaningful careers that support local communities and vital public services.
