We are recognised for outstanding student placement experiences

Published: 1 September 2026

We have received a Certificate of Recognition from the University of Plymouth in recognition of the outstanding placement experiences provided to student nurses and midwives. What makes the award particularly special is that the nominations came directly from students studying BSc Adult Nursing, BSc Child Health Nursing and BSc Midwifery.

Students praised the warm, welcoming and supportive environments they experienced across hospital, community and maternity services and the opportunities they were given to learn, develop confidence and build their clinical skills.

Many students spoke about feeling valued and included from the moment they arrived.

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 commented: “From my first day, they made me feel like a valued member of the team, welcoming me with kindness, respect and encouragement.”

The feedback also highlighted the role placements played in shaping future careers.

One student said: “The placement has made me want to work in community nursing when I qualify.”

Another described how their placement had confirmed that, at the age of 57, a career change into healthcare was the right decision.

Students consistently praised our colleagues for their kindness, commitment to teaching and willingness to provide learning opportunities, even during busy periods. Many described their placements as having a lasting impact on their confidence, professional development and future career aspirations.

Joe Teape, Chief Executive, said: “What makes this recognition so meaningful is that it comes directly from students themselves. Their feedback speaks volumes about the kindness, encouragement and support they receive from colleagues across our services. Thank you to everyone who helps make Torbay and South Devon such a positive place to learn.”

Nicola McMinn, Chief Nurse, said: “Every nurse and midwife remembers what it felt like to be a student. The feedback behind this recognition shows the difference colleagues are making by taking the time to teach, encourage and support those who are learning. I’m incredibly proud of the kindness, professionalism and commitment our teams show to our future nurses and midwives.”

Joanna Bassett, Director of Midwifery, said: “Student midwives are a vital part of the future of our profession and it’s wonderful to see the positive impact our teams are having on their learning and development. The feedback shows how much students value being welcomed, included and supported throughout their placements.”

Corinne Foy, Associate Director of Nursing and Professional Practice, Families and Communities, Paediatrics and Public Health, said: “We want every student who spends time with our child health teams to feel encouraged to ask questions, develop new skills and grow in confidence. It’s lovely to see that experience reflected so clearly in the feedback we’ve received.”

Sharon Boyne, Care Group Director of Nursing for Planned Care, said: “High-quality placements don’t happen by chance. They are created by colleagues who make time to share their knowledge, support learning and help students gain valuable experience in practice. This recognition reflects that collective effort.”

The recognition reflects the contribution of colleagues across Torbay and South Devon who support students during placements, helping them gain experience in a wide range of clinical settings while developing the skills and confidence needed for their future careers.

The University of Plymouth award also reflects the strong learning environments created across hospital, community and maternity services, and the commitment of teams who continue to support and inspire the next generation of nurses and midwives.