With the winners’ names kept top secret, there was an agonising wait until the ceremony itself before the nursing team found out they had won. Just as valuable as winning was the chance to share in the celebration of nursing education with the other attendees. With more than 600 initial entries, and 200 individuals, universities or practice partners shortlisted against the 25 categories, the competition was fierce.

The commendation from the judges in awarding the University the accolade read: 

‘Presented by two outstanding student ambassadors, this entry beautifully showcased the transformative power of their nursing programme. They spoke with passion, professionalism, and authenticity—demonstrating how their education has shaped both their personal growth and their commitment to person-centred, holistic care. The nurturing ethos of their training was clear throughout, and their presentation left no doubt: these are professionals truly prepared to lead in the future of healthcare.’

Professor Kathy Riley, the University’s Director of Nurse Education, said: “The day was definitely one of mixed emotions, but our award is a testament to the hard work of everyone involved in the delivery of our pre-registration nursing programmes.

"This includes our practice learning partners and service users, as well as the academic and support teams.

“Seeing the success of our students is the department's additional motivation to deliver nursing programmes that produce highly skilled, confident and educated nursing professionals for the future workforce, just like Jaqui and Chloe.

“Awards like this are the icing on the cake and cement our reputation in the nursing education sector.”

Find out more about our nursing courses and up to £23,000 funding available to help support your studies.