Could you be the next nursing student of the year?

Published: 23 October 2012

Have you been able to make a real difference to patient care because of an incident or experience that happened during your training?

If the answer is yes, then you could apply for a prestigious Nursing Standard student nurse of the year award.

Supported by the RCN Fellows, the winner receives a prize of £500, with the award presented at a special ceremony at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum on 12 March 2013. 

Open to all nursing students, applicants must write a short essay of no more than 500 words, describing what happened and how their nursing practice altered as a result.

Nursing Standard editor in chief Jean Gray, who is a member of the judging panel, said: “We are looking for a nursing student who stands out from the crowd. Our winner will be able to express themselves clearly, showing empathy with their patients.”

Last year’s winner, Natalie Ions, did just that, with her thoughtful project to help patients in a neuro-rehabiliation ward.

Then studying a diploma in adult nursing at Kingston University and St George’s University Hospital, Natalie was described by chair of the judges and the RCN as a “a great ambassador for nursing”.

Now working in her first nursing job as a neurosciences staff nurse at St George’s Hospital in South West London, Natalie said: “I’m sure that winning the award helped my application. It’s a competitive marketplace and so anything that sets you apart is really useful.

“The award shows that you think outside the box and have an interest in developing practice.” 

If you would like to follow in Natalie’s footsteps, visit Nursing Standard for more details on how to enter. The closing date for entries is Wednesday 31 October 2012.