Teesside University has been shortlisted in four categories of prestigious national nursing awards to be presented in April.
The Student Nursing Times Awards 2016 award winners will be announced on Thursday 28 April at a ceremony in London. Teesside has been shortlisted in the following categories:
· * Student Nurse of the Year (Adult Nursing) – Natasha Koiston and Nicola Copeland
· * Student Nurse of the Year (Children Nursing) – Rob Nestor and Samantha Eaton
· * Nurse Education Provider of the Year (Pre-registration)
· * Return to Practice Course of the Year.
Nicola, 38, of Northumberland, is a final year BSc (Hons) Nursing Studies (Adult) student. She said: “I feel proud to be shortlisted and have been overwhelmed by the support I’ve had from tutors, previous mentors and peers. I have enjoyed my time at Teesside and have felt supported throughout the duration of my course.”
Natasha, 27, of Billingham, also a final year full-time BSc (Hons) Nursing Studies (Adult) student, said: “Teesside University is fast becoming known for its amazing courses, especially within health and social care. The course has set me on the path to be a nurse who always expects high standards of patient centred care. The support I’ve received from many of the lecturers and academic staff has been second to none and I genuinely feel that without it I would not have managed to complete this course.”
She added: “Being shortlisted for the award is completely overwhelming. It’s an absolute privilege and honour to have been recognised for my achievements. It has made me extremely proud of myself and how far I’ve come during the last three years.”
Final year BSc (Hons) Nursing Studies (Child) student Rob, 32, of Middlesbrough, said: “I have been really impressed with Teesside and the training we get, from experiencing the course and from hearing from qualified nurses and other professionals. I am flattered and delighted to be shortlisted for this award, it’s a real privilege and it’s lovely to represent all the fantastic nursing students at Teesside.”
Rob feels his nomination reflects the voluntary work he does at the University in both peer support as a student buddy and in helping out on enrolment days and Open Days, talking to potential students about his own experience of the course. He volunteers with a national charity which provides respite holidays for children with special needs.
Samantha Eaton, 31, from Stockton, is a final year BSc Hons Nursing (Child) student. She said: “I chose to study at Teesside University because of its excellent reputation, especially in nursing. I have progressed so much during this degree, both professionally and personally. This is through support with every aspect of my learning, through theory and practical experiences.”
She added: “To be shortlisted for this award feels amazing, unbelievable and exciting all rolled into one. I would highly recommend Teesside University. It’s a professional, fun, supportive and innovative learning environment.”
Marion Grieves, Dean of the University’s School of Health & Social Care, said: “We are delighted that four of our students have been nominated as student of the year. It is a reflection of the quality of our students, staff and the excellent partnership working with our service colleagues.
“The additional two nominations also bring deserved recognition for the whole School of Health & Social Care team, who go the extra mile to inspire the nurses of the future.”
The Student Times Nursing Awards shortlist: https://studentawards.