Rosie Shepherd

I specialise in major trauma and orthopaedic nursing, as well as palliative care nursing. I teach on our BSc Adult Nursing, BSc Mental Health Nursing and FdSc Nursing Associate courses. I’ve always been fascinated by how the body works, and in orthopaedics, there is something very satisfying about seeing injuries treated, as you can see the patient’s progress with your own eyes. 

In my classes, I draw heavily on my clinical background, including my time working on a major trauma ward caring for military personnel flown in for treatment, as well as my work in a hospital during the COVID-19 pandemic. My professional experience gives me a wide range of scenarios and case examples to discuss with students. 

What I enjoy most about my role is inspiring the next generation of nurses - I love seeing students grow in confidence and competence over time. Students often tell me they appreciate how approachable I am and how my teaching style caters to different neurodiversities. I was honoured to be nominated by students for the “Inspirational Teaching” and “Best Personal Tutor” awards. The advice I give my students is to work hard - it really does pay off. I love the quote: “Anything worth getting isn't easy; anything easy isn't worth getting.”

Outside of work, I volunteer with the Young Kennel Club, organising camping weekends and training days where children learn to train their dogs. Every year, I also help run a ring at Crufts - if you’re watching closely, you might see me on TV. I grew up doing these kinds of events with my own dogs, so it feels very natural for me to give back. Something else not many people know about me is that I worked and volunteered in Zambia, and I even completed a bungee jump during my time there.