University’s first ever March cohort of nurses celebrate completing their course

The University of Northampton’s first ever cohort of March-starting nursing students, who started their courses in 2013, enjoyed an afternoon tea party this week to celebrate completing their programme of study.

Students who wish to study Adult Nursing or Mental Health Nursing at the University of Northampton can choose from two starting points, either October or March to begin their studies. The University was commissioned to offer the March start point in 2013 to meet high demand for nurses, and this week the first class of students completed their undergraduate degree.

The students enjoyed an afternoon tea party on Wednesday, and their lecturers were on hand to celebrate and impart words of wisdom for future students.

Cindy O’Dell, Senior Lecturer in Nursing, commented: “The nursing team at the University of Northampton, in partnership with our placement colleagues, are very proud of our students and their achievements. Our students have all embraced a positive, ‘being brilliant’ approach to their course and we were delighted to celebrate their achievements.”

Two students were awarded special prizes in recognition of their hard work and dedication: Victoria Leitch was presented with the inaugural ‘Jan Brown Award for Adult Nursing’, and Daisy Maradzika received a trophy for excellence in ‘Mental Health Nursing’. The students will be officially presented with their trophies at this summer’s graduation ceremony.

Cindy continued: “Former Senior Lecturer Jan Brown attended to present the prize named in her honour, which was awarded to Victoria in recognition of her determination, commitment and motivation beyond what is required.”

Many of the students and staff who attended the event wore a variety of hats at the afternoon tea, to raise funds in support of Brain Tumour Research.