National recognition for Solent's nursing team

Following a record year of nominations at the 2024 Student Nursing Times Awards – which is now in its 13th year – Solent has been named as one of just seven universities to be nominated for the coveted Nursing Associate Training Programme Provider of the Year.

Nursing associates were introduced in 2017 to play a key role in bridging the gap between support workers and registered nurses. At the time, Solent was the first University in the Wessex Region to offer a Health and Social Care Nursing Associate course, highlighting their commitment to delivering healthcare courses that meet current and future needs.

Nursing Associate apprentice, Shirley Rapson, says: “My Nursing Assistant course at Solent has significantly enhanced my skills and prepared me for a new career in nursing with the support from the University’s teaching staff.”

Solent has made clear its commitment to supporting the delivery of the NHS Long Term Plan and their Nursing Associate apprenticeship was developed in partnership with Trusts and care providers in the region.

Created to celebrate the high standard and skills of student nurses, as well as the institutions and organisations that teach, train and help them to thrive, the Student Nursing Times Awards is the most celebrated ceremony of this purpose in England.

Solent’s Lead Academic Nurse, Sharon Guy, says: “We are committed to providing students with high-quality teaching that prepares our Nursing Associates for successful careers in healthcare. We are proud to be recognised by the Student Nursing Times Awards with this nomination, which highlights the dedication of our teaching staff and the standard of this course.

“Our students go on to have meaningful and impactful careers within the NHS and other healthcare organisations, and this validation gives us a strong foundation for continuing to grow our offer and reach more nurses of the future.”

This nomination recognises Solent’s high standard of teaching, as well as the excellent outcomes for their students. Winners of the Student Nursing Times Awards will be announced at a special ceremony at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel on Friday 26 April.

Philip Rose, a Nursing Associate apprentice at Solent, says: "As an older student, my journey is a testament to the fact that it's never too late to pursue your passion. Solent has provided me with an environment where experience is valued and integrated into learning, empowering me to blend my life's wisdom with cutting-edge nursing education. This unique combination is paving my way toward achieving my career goals in healthcare, demonstrating that with dedication and the right support, any dream is attainable. My time at Solent is not just about gaining a qualification; it's about transforming my life's second chapter into a story of inspiration and impact."

Find out more about our nursing courses here.