Student Festival 2026
Shape Your Future in Nursing
13 Jun 2026, 10:00 - 17:00
Choose event information:
A one-day event designed for nursing students to explore career pathways, gain financial advice, meet inspiring speakers and connect with other students across the UK.
The RCN Student Festival is an inspiring event exclusively for nursing students, taking place in Manchester (11 Baring St, Manchester, M1 2PZ)
Last year, over 100 nursing students joined us for the event, and this year promises to be even better!
What you will experience
- Keynote speakers sharing insights on the future of nursing
- RCN membership exhibition showcasing exclusive benefits
- Expert talks on financial wellbeing for student nurses
- Interactive seminars to help shape your career path Panel discussions on key issues affecting nursing today
- Food and refreshments included throughout the day
Tickets and pricing
- £15 - RCN members
- £25 - Non - members
What your ticket includes
- An RCN Shop exclusive discount up to the value of £15
- Surprise goodie bag
- A lunch token to spend at any of our on-site food vendors
- Complimentary refreshments available throughout the day
- Full access to inspiring speakers and expert-led sessions
- Opportunity to connect with a wide range of exhibitors, including: Early Careers Network, RCN Learn and RCN Library
Do I need to be an RCN member to attend?
No, non-members are welcome, as long as you are a student nurse. However members do receive a discounted ticket price, and we do recommend signing up as you will get access to a range of support, resources and benefits throughout your students and beyond.
Becoming an RCN Student member before booking is the easiest way to save on your ticket and start making the most of what RCN membership has to offer.
Who should attend?
This event is designed for student nurses at any stage of their degree. What should I bring? Just yourself! Food and refreshments will be provided.
11 Baring St
Manchester
M1 2PY
Venue Overview
Located in the heart of Depot Mayfield, just behind Manchester Piccadilly Station, the event will take place at Freight Island. A vibrant multi-vendor venue set within stunning historic industrial architecture.
Access:
- 2 minutes’ walk from Picadilly station
- Exit station via the back entrance on Fairfield Street
- Fully accessible venue with step-free routes.
- Accessible toilets
No smoking or vaping:
- Smoking and vaping are not permitted inside the venue.
Food and drink
- Refreshments will be available throughout the day
- Lunch voucher provided to use at any of the 8 food vendors. See options here.
Safety and Wellbeing
View our RCN Student Festival Safety and Wellbeing guide here.
Tickets and pricing
- £15- RCN members
- £25 - Non - members
Join the RCN to be immediately eligible for the member rate.
To make a booking
Online bookings are the easiest and fastest way to book 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Bookings can be made by phone with payment by credit card/Maestro, by calling +44 (0)2920 546460. Lines are open from 9.30am - 4.30pm Monday to Friday.
Bookings can also be made via email with a downloaded booking form with credit card details or payment/remittance advice emailed to eventsreg@rcn.org.uk.
All bookings will be confirmed in writing.
You will not be registered for this event unless payment accompanies your application. Places cannot be held provisionally.
The RCN reserves the right to refuse any booking at any time.
To pay by invoice
To pay by invoice you must send all of the below to eventsreg@rcn.org.uk
•A copy of the Purchase Order document from your organisation or company (we cannot process your order without it).
•Your Finance department/accounts payable contact email address to receive an electronic copy of the invoice from us.
•A completed RCN Events Booking Form for each delegate in the booking.
Once the invoice has been raised, you will then receive confirmation of your delegate booking on the event requested. Invoices are to be paid within 30 days of the invoice being issued.
View the event Terms and Conditions.
See the line up below, or download a PDF version here: RCN Student Festival Line up PDF
Angie McDonald
Lead for IHSC in the Northern Region
"With over 30 yrs of nursing experience, I have built a diverse and rewarding career across multiple pathways in healthcare. I began in Medical Haematology wards across several NHS trusts, where I developed a strong clinical foundation before progressing into leadership as ward sister. My career then progressed across offender health, community nursing, and specialist palliative care, working both in the community settings and prisons.
Throughout these roles, I have leadership positions at local, regional, and national levels, contributing to service development and improving care some of the most vulnerable populations.
I am currently working with the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) as the interim Lead for IHSC in the Northern Region. I continue to influence practice, policy, and professional standards. I am very passionate about answering any questions you may have on the wide-ranging opportunities within nursing that you to can explore in the profession."
Luke Evans
RCN Public Health Forum Chair
Assistant Delivery Manager in Health Equity – Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust
Luke qualified as a nurse in 2012 and has since completed his Professional Diploma in Tropical Nursing and his Masters in Global Public Health. He has worked across various sectors including; local government, international medical assistance, pharmaceuticals, health innovation networks and the NHS.
He’s been published in the British Journal of Nursing and Primary Care Nursing journals. He has worked on various public health initiatives such as on the national team leading the Innovation for Health Inequalities Programme (InHIP) and performed a review of Health and Wellbeing roles within the NHS.
Luke is currently working in Health Equity, building the intelligence, infrastructure and interventions within his trust to deliver services that provide equitable access, experiences and outcomes for their patients.
Dr Melanie Stephens
Associate Professor in Adult Nursing at the University of Salford
NIHR RRDN Northwest Residential Settings
Lead Visiting Professor at Trinity College Dublin
Dr Melanie Stephens is an Associate Professor in Adult Nursing at the University of Salford, NIHR RRDN Northwest Residential Settings Lead and Visiting Professor at Trinity College Dublin. Prior to joining the University 24 years ago, Melanie worked across many interprofessional teams in the fields of Diabetes, Burns and Plastic Surgery, ICU and Tissue Viability.
After joining the university Melanie led the development of innovative interprofessional and international education and placement opportunities for undergraduate students. Melanie is now a social and health care researcher, who still contributes to the under and postgraduate programmes. She has conducted research in the social care sector evaluating the impact of pressure redistributing chairs and night time positioning equipment.
Recently she has led interprofessional studies with colleagues regarding collaborative learning in practice, virtual wound care clinics and placements in Uganda, and more recently the impact of interprofessional student training care homes across Greater Manchester, and nurse led diabetic foot clinics and self management education programmes in Uganda.
Simon Browes MSc, RN, SCPHN, Cert.PMH (RCPysch), FRSPH
Regional Director, Royal College of Nursing
"I have spent more than 25 years practising across community, public health, and mental health services. I currently work as Regional Director for the North West at the Royal College of Nursing, leading the regional team in supporting and representing nurses and nursing.
What matters most to me is how we value people; patients, colleagues, and ourselves. My approach is shaped by person-centred values and a strong belief that relationships are at the centre of good care and good leadership. I’m interested in people, how teams work, how cultures develop, and how we create workplaces where people feel safe, respected, and able to do their best.
Over the years I’ve worked in clinical, leadership, and academic roles in the NHS and beyond. I care about doing things well, using evidence sensibly, and improving systems in ways that make a real difference to people."
Antonia Philp
Paediatric Nurse (BNurs Hons 2008) and Nursem Co-founder
Nursem was launched in 2012 after Antonia, a newly qualified Paediatric nurse ended up having to take time off work with severe contact Dermatitis due to the necessary but excessive hand washing that is required in Healthcare. She knew she was not alone in this problem so herself and her Co-founder set about developing their own Hand Cream formula, avoiding the usual harsh, synthetic ingredients that are contained in a lot of Hand creams.
The core of Nursem is a one for one ethos called the Nursem Promise, whereby for every product they sell they give a month’s worth of Free hand care to a Nurse, Midwife or Healthcare Professional in the NHS. To date they have delivered around 750,000 months worth of Free Hand care and are on track to deliver their Millionth promise by early next year.
Will Malcher
Professional Lead for Students (UK), RCN Institute.
Will is a senior nurse, associate lecturer and researcher in infectious diseases. He received the Florence Nightingale Award for his work on COVID 19. Will empowers student nurses through leadership, activism and inclusion. He amplifies student voices, supports networks and shapes strategic engagement across the UK, inspiring the next generation.
Elsa Afonso
Head of the International Academy, Royal College of Nursing
Elsa is Head of the International Academy, where she leads global health programmes across Sri Lanka, Malawi, and the UK Overseas Territories. With a background in neonatal intensive care and humanitarian nursing, she has worked in clinical, academic, and educational roles across Europe and Africa. Elsa lectures internationally, contributes to global nursing curricula, and is actively engaged in research and professional development.
Becki Winson
Lead for Activist Communities, RCN Institute
Becki has been an Organiser for over 15 years, and has worked on campaigns on healthy equality, social housing, fair pay and the environment. She studied Leadership and Organising at the Harvard Kennedy School, and has written for The Guardian, the New Statesman and others.
For those traveling from further afield, there is a range of accommodation within walking distance of the event venue and Manchester Piccadilly Station. Freight Island is located approximately two minutes’ walk from Piccadilly station, making the surrounding area a convenient place to stay.
The hotels listed below are all within easy reach of the venue and typically offer good‑value rates, subject to availability and booking time.
Nearby hotel options
Motel One Manchester – Piccadilly
A modern hotel located close to Manchester Piccadilly Station. Typically £65–£85 per night.
Travelodge Manchester Piccadilly
A well‑known, budget‑friendly option within walking distance of the venue .Typically £55–£70 per night.
Leonardo Hotel Manchester Piccadilly
A newer hotel offering comfortable accommodation close to the city centre.Typically £70–£95 per night.
Piccadilly Central
A competitively priced option, conveniently located near the station. Typically £60–£70 per night.
ibis Manchester Centre Portland Street
A reliable budget hotel in Manchester city centre. Typically £65–£70 per night.
a&o Manchester City Centre
One of the most economical options, with private rooms available. Typically £45–£65 per night.
Prices are indicative and may vary. Attendees are advised to book early to secure the best available rates.
Safety & Wellbeing for RCN Student Festival 2026
Your Safety
- Security & stewards: On hand all day – look for high-vis vests.
- Emergency exits: Clearly marked – know your nearest exit.
- Fire alarm: Continuous alarm = evacuate calmly with staff guidance.
- Lost property: Bring items to the registration desk.
Your Wellbeing
- First aid: Available – ask any steward for help.
- Water stations: Refill points are available throughout the venue – stay hydrated.
- Toilets & accessible facilities: Located outside The Plant Room, follow signs through the food hall.
Code of Conduct – RCN Respect Charter
We’re committed to a respectful, inclusive and safe space for everyone.
By attending, you agree to:
- Be kind, respectful and professional.
- Treat everyone equally – no bullying, harassment or discrimination.
- Use inclusive and respectful language.
- Respect personal space and boundaries.
- Report any concerns to RCN staff or stewards.
This event follows the RCN Respect Charter. Breaches may result in removal from the event.
Accessibility Support
- Fully accessible venue with step-free routes.
- Accessible toilets
- Speak to the registration desk if you need extra support.
Specific requirements
If you have any specific requirements (e.g. dietary, accessibility etc.), please inform us in advance so we can ensure the appropriate arrangements are in place.
Contacts
- RCN registration desk: Please visit registration desk for any information
- Security or emergency help: Speak to any steward
- Serious emergency: Call 999 and alert a steward immediately
Look After Yourself and Each Other
We want you to enjoy the day, connect with others, and feel supported. If you need help at any point, just ask – we’re here for you.
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Page last updated - 30/04/2026
