‘May the Schwartz be with you’. New reflective practice initiative

Health students are exploring the rewards and challenges of their studies in more detail with a new ‘conversation corner’ addition to their courses.

Schwartz Rounds are storytelling and learning forums named after their creator Ken Schwartz. Schwartz was a US health attorney who, during treatment for cancer, found that what mattered to him most as a patient were simple acts of kindness from his caregivers.

Each Round lasts about an hour, with University of Northampton (UON) health students – supervised by their lecturers – given five minutes uninterrupted time to tell their story. This is based on a pre-agreed topic, such as a positive experience or a challenge they have faced.

In the spirit of listening, learning and advising, the other storytellers then share their reflections on what they have heard.

Students and staff from across the Faculty of Health, Education and Society meet recently to discuss the emotional impact of their first few days at university.

Laura Casey is in the second year of her degree in Mental Health Nursing. She says: “I was one of the first students to join a Schwartz Round at UON. I feel so proud of myself for sharing my story and having the confidence to speak in front of others. It allowed me to hear different perspectives and have a better understanding of individuals lives. All our stories can have an impact and resonate with each other.”

Ruth Anane-Afriyi is in the second year of her degree in Adult Nursing. She adds: “I feel the Schwartz Round has improved my confidence as I was able to share my experience with people, something that I struggled to do at the initial stage of my education at the University.

“Furthermore, my emotional intelligence has improved as I emotionally connected with others that shared their story during the Schwartz round. It is an interesting programme that connects the individuals together through their experiences.

Over 90% of students who have taken part in previous Schwartz Rounds elsewhere have said it helps them to work better with their colleagues. 85% say they have greater insight into how others think and feel.

Claire Clinker (pictured with Laura and Ruth), Deputy Subject Leader Nursing – practice, is part of the teaching team behind the Schwartz Rounds at UON which, in time, will be rolled out across the Faculty.

She says: “The underlying premise for Rounds is that the compassion shown by staff can make all the difference to a people’s experiences. To provide compassionate care staff must, in turn, feel supported in their work.

“With our commitment to be as supportive as possible for our students, we felt that the Rounds would be a perfect ‘bolt on’ to our curriculum. ‘Round 1’ has more than proved this.”

Find out more about Schwartz Rounds at UON.