Four pupils from Denmark Road High School in Gloucester have been named the South West winners in an annual competition to encourage young people to consider a career in the NHS.

The competition saw 840 entries from students in 134 secondary schools throughout England, with an estimated 18,000 secondary students taking part.

Denmark Road year 8 students Esha Rajan, Nia George, Alisa Vinod and Khushi Pachipulusu, created a lively and engaging video showcasing the role of an anaesthetist. They each won a £25 Amazon voucher and a certificate to congratulate them for their hard work.

Esha, Nia, Alisa and Khushi said: "We are so grateful for being placed as the winners of the South-West region, we were so elated and shocked on hearing the amazing news. We had a great time as a team, as everybody contributed with great ideas.

"We learnt that no matter what job, everybody in the NHS works equally hard, and they also work as a team. Each person has their own critical role in a patient's wellbeing and care."

Miss Emma Hodnett, class teacher, said: "Our students thoroughly enjoy being given the time to research careers in the NHS and it promotes interesting discussions on the full range of career options available to every student. For our winning team especially, this has been such a memorable experience that will stay with them long into the future."

Dr Navina Evans, chief executive, Health Education England, said: "Last year's entries for the Step into the NHS contest have been imaginative, fun and inspirational. I am absolutely thrilled to congratulate Esha, Nia, Alisa and Khushi on their video showcasing the role of anaesthesiologist. Well done and keep up the great work!"

The Step into the NHS competition relaunches for its 14th year in primary and secondary schools across England this week. Young people are invited to be inspired and raise their awareness of over 350 career opportunities in the NHS.

To enter the competition, primary school pupils are asked to create a "thank you" to the NHS that shows an understanding of NHS careers and challenges gender stereotyping. Secondary school students are tasked with researching an NHS role of their choice and creating a fun and lively job advertisement that appeals to their peers.

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: