The Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust has received a Certificate of Recognition from the University of Plymouth for providing outstanding placement experiences to nursing and midwifery students. The award follows positive feedback and nominations from students studying BSc Adult Nursing, BSc Child Health Nursing and BSc Midwifery.
Students described the placements across the Trust's hospital, community and maternity services as warm, welcoming and supportive. Many said they felt valued and included from the moment they arrived, and praised staff for creating opportunities to learn, develop confidence and build clinical skills.
One student said of their manager: "She has never made me feel like 'just a student' – instead, she treats me as a valued member of the team."
Another student said: "From my first day, they made me feel like a valued member of the team, welcoming me with kindness, respect and encouragement."
The placements also influenced career choices. One student said the experience made them want to pursue community nursing after qualifying. Another said their placement confirmed that changing career and moving into healthcare at the age of 57 had been the right decision.
Students consistently praised Trust colleagues for their kindness, commitment to teaching and willingness to support learning, even in busy clinical environments.
Joe Teape, Chief Executive of the Torbay and South Devon NHS Foundation Trust, said the recognition was especially meaningful because it came from students. "What makes this recognition so meaningful is that it comes directly from students themselves," he said. "Their feedback speaks volumes about the kindness, encouragement and support they receive from colleagues across our services,"
Chief Nurse Nicola McMinn said the feedback showed the difference staff make by supporting students during placements. "Every nurse and midwife remembers what it felt like to be a student," she said. "The feedback behind this recognition shows the difference colleagues are making by taking the time to teach, encourage and support those who are learning."
Director of Midwifery Joanna Bassett said student midwives were an important part of the future of the profession. Corinne Foy, Associate Director of Nursing and Professional Practice, said the Trust wanted every student to feel able to ask questions, develop skills and grow in confidence.
Sharon Boyne, Care Group Director of Nursing for Planned Care, added that high-quality placements were created by staff who took the time to share their knowledge and support students in practice.
The University of Plymouth Certificate of Recognition celebrates that collective effort, highlighting the strong learning environments being created across South Devon and the important role Trust staff play in inspiring and developing the nurses and midwives of the future.
Students Hail Supportive South Devon NHS Placements