Physiotherapy staff from the NHS in Gateshead have been highlighted as ‘outstanding’ and praised for their commitment to helping train and mentor the next generation of physios.
Physiotherapists Ryan Cameron, Rob Hooks and Rachel Hills are practice educators at Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust and have invaluable support from technical instructor Dave Hutton.
This means they assist university students who are undertaking a clinical placement at the Trust, which involves offering support, education and practical experience of working in the field.
Physio students from Northumbria University have thanked the team by nominating them for a Student-Led Practice Educator Award, in recognition of their ‘outstanding contribution’ and for their positive impact on the physiotherapists of the future.
Comments from the students include:
“Dave has made my placement enjoyable and provided me with lots of knowledge about physiotherapy interventions previous to surgery such as a laparotomy. No question is too stupid or irrelevant, my queries are all acknowledged.”
“Rachel was really fabulous. She really pushed me to my best abilities, and I gained so much confidence within the paediatric field. I cannot thank her enough for how she made my placement so enjoyable and so interesting.”
“Rob and the team at the QE truly made this an unforgettable placement and one I will hold close to my heart throughout my journey to becoming a physio. Really good at teaching, allowed independence and all round just brill and class.”
“Ryan was great, he provided fantastic feedback when I was with patients and encouraged me to expand my anatomy knowledge for the specialised field of lower limb. I cannot thank him enough for how he made my placement so enjoyable and so interesting.”
Sarah Hackett, physiotherapy lead at Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are so proud of the team – and we’re delighted that they have received this recognition for their commitment and dedication to supporting the next generation of NHS physiotherapy staff.”
Lorna Dace, lead Allied Health Professional (AHP) at Gateshead Health NHS Foundation Trust, adds: “We are so pleased to hear of the wonderful experience our students have received. It’s heartening to know that the next generation of physios knows what a great place Gateshead is to work and learn, and that our clinical staff excel in their role as educators.”
Katherine Baker, head of subject for physiotherapy at Northumbria University, said: “This is the first year we have asked for nominations for the Student Led Practice Educator Awards. We had a number of nominations for Gateshead and the reasons given by the students really do emphasise how welcome they are made within the organisation and what brilliant support and exposure to diverse learning experiences they are given. Well done to everyone who received an award and a huge thank you to the whole team for your support.”