Two nursing and one midwifery student successfully applied to complete this student leadership programme, which offers innovative ways for developing future healthcare professionals, including leadership training, networking and mentoring. There were over 750 applicants for the 150 places UK wide. The 2 nursing students are now the School Representatives for the School of Nursing and Midwifery and acting as excellent role models for all course representatives within the School, offering leadership, guidance and support. The midwifery student has also been nominated in 2 further categories of this programme: Top #150 Leaders Mentoring Partnership and Midwife.
Student reflection on the impact of the #150 Leaders Programme (Evie Poole, 3rd year Adult Nursing)
- Why did you want to apply for the leadership programme?
I wanted to join the Student Leadership Programme, because as a second-year student nurse, I am eagerly considering my future, and although where I want to work isn’t clear yet, I know for definite that I would like to progress and lead throughout my career.
- What was the application process like, how did you have to go about securing a place?
I first found out about the Student Leadership Programme through recommendation from my mentor on my 3rd placement which she had seen through twitter. With support from my mentor I completed the application form which just simply asked why I wished to be part of the programme and how I think it will impact my future career. I also had to gain clinical practice support, which my mentor filled in for me. Whilst on placement, the programme lead for nursing also got in touch and encouraged me to apply as she thought I would be a good candidate.
- How do you feel to have got a place on the leadership programme?
I applied for the programme only a few days before the closing date, so at the time of applying, I didn’t realise the extent to what a great opportunity this is. I found out after being accepted that there were 760 applicants and only 90 of us were selected for cohorts 3 and 4.
After the welcome event, I felt quite positively overwhelmed; I was in a room with about 40 other like-minded individuals that all aspired to become future leaders. We heard from speakers that have already completed this journey – overcome the imposter syndrome – and found themselves in position of leadership, influencing change and development daily.
I have now been assigned my mentor, who I will be meeting with to work on some goals to becoming an effective leader and personally and professionally developing in preparation for my future career.
- What do you hope the programme will give you – both personally and in terms of developing as a practitioner.
I am hoping the SLP will help me gain confidence in my abilities and teach me the essential skills as to become an effective leader. With the on-going changes in nursing and the greater need for efficiency and collaboration, I would particularly like to gain knowledge and guidance on how to promote staff morale and become a leader who can facilitate a positive difference.
As part of the new generation of nurses, and the changing environment of the NHS, I would like to strengthen my skill set to enable me to contribute to a successful, efficient team that puts patient care paramount, in a system that strives on communication and team work.
- What are your ambitions for the future?
At this point in my training I have an interest in primary care and general practice nursing, however, I still have 3 placements left and a great deal to learn. I am going to Sri Lanka for an international elective placement in November and hope to experience a lower-middle income country’s health system and the way they provide community patient care.
- What makes a great midwife/nurse… in your opinion?
I’ve met some great nurses in my short career this far, but I think what really makes them so wonderful is the passion and dedication to the role. Being able to facilitate excellent patient care in an ever-changing work environment with the positivity and motivation to continue learning and developing and supporting future nurses to have the same qualities.