Inspirational nurses celebrated by University of Stirling students

Student nurses have celebrated NHS staff who mentored and supported them during placements in clinical environments.

More than 50 members of staff were recognised, and an awards ceremony held at Forth Valley Royal Hospital.

The Inspirational Practice Supervisor/Assessor Celebration event recognises the vital role supervisors and assessors play.

Third-year students nominate a practice supervisor or assessor who has been particularly inspirational during their training.

The nominees are then invited to the celebration event, where they receive a badge and certificate in recognition of their outstanding support and dedication.

Recipients with their certificates and pin badges take to the stage at the event

'Meaningful learning opportunity'

Student nurse Agnieszka Spaczyska nominated Gemma McArthur, an intensive care nurse at NHS Forth Valley, for her exceptional teaching and support during placement.

Agnieszka said: “From the very beginning, she made me feel welcomed and valued as part of the team. Her calm and reassuring presence helped me build confidence in an intense and high-pressure environment.

“Gemma took the time to explain procedures, answer my questions, and involve me in patient care whenever possible, turning every shift into a meaningful learning opportunity.”

Agnieszka, now a registered Adult Nurse about to start her first post in the Urology Outpatient Department at Forth Valley Royal Hospital, added: “I will carry her guidance and example with me throughout my nursing career.”

'Incredibly patient and supportive'

Student nurse Kat Sharman recognised Claire Holden, Staff Nurse in Ward B32 at Forth Valley Royal Hospital, for her outstanding guidance and encouragement during her final placement.

Kat said: “Claire has been incredibly patient and supportive throughout my placement. She challenged me in a way that is both informative and thought-provoking, helping me build confidence and trust my own judgement.

“Claire consistently demonstrated professionalism and checked in on me during difficult situations. When I fractured my ankle, she offered support while I was off and ensured I felt confident returning to placement. She is without doubt the most exceptional supervisor I’ve had.”

Kat is now a registered Adult Nurse on Ward 1 at St Andrews Community Hospital.

'Truly prepared me'

Student nurse Rhana Wilson nominated Vicky Meechan, a Mental Health Nurse in the Community Alcohol and Drugs Service, for her genuine warmth and professional guidance during placement.

Rhana said: “Vicky has completely brought me out of my shell. She is patient, kind, and the true definition of a good nurse and a good person.

“Vicky has gone above and beyond to support both her patients and her team, and she has helped me grow in confidence and truly prepared me for my final year.”

Rhana is now completing her honours year at the University of Stirling and will graduate next year.

Inspirational Practice Supervisor and Assessor Celebration pin badges

'Highlight and celebrate'

Student nurses engage in a range of placements throughout their studies to gain practical experience in clinical environments across NHS Forth Valley and other local health boards.

Professor Karen Goudie, NHS Forth Valley Executive Nurse Director, said: “Nursing staff across NHS Forth Valley play an important role in supporting and mentoring nursing students throughout their university education and practice placements and this event provides an opportunity to highlight and celebrate their contribution.

“It’s fantastic to see so many local staff being recognised by former students and hear what a difference their support has made as they embark on their new nursing careers with NHS Forth Valley.”

'Dedication, compassion and professionalism'

In 2022, the University of Stirling, Forth Valley College and NHS Forth Valley launched the Forth Valley University College NHS Partnership, the first formal collaboration between a health board, university and college in Scotland, which aims to improve patient care and treatment for communities across the Forth Valley region and surrounding area.

Sharon Faulds, Lecturer in Nursing at the University of Stirling, said: “This event is such a meaningful celebration of the partnership between the University and our practice learning partners. It recognises the incredible contribution that practice supervisors and assessors make in supporting our student nurses throughout their placements.

“The nominations truly highlight the dedication, compassion, and professionalism shown across our practice areas every day. We’re deeply grateful for the commitment our colleagues show in guiding and inspiring the next generation of nurses.”

Find out more about studying nursing at the University of Stirling here.

University of Stirling and NHS Forth Valley staff at the event