University of Plymouth awarded for excellent general practice education

The University of Plymouth has been named Healthcare Practitioner Education Provider of the year at the General Practice Awards 2012. The University was presented with the prestigious national award in light of its pioneering work in developing education and training in the general practice sector.

The University accepted the accolade at a Gala dinner in the Park Lane Hilton, London in front of 900 people. It fought off tough competition from two other shortlisted universities and two private providers in the same category.

Each year the University educates over 300 general practice nurses and healthcare assistants through its range of courses and specialist Continuing Professional Development events.

University of Plymouth has developed its national reputation through the innovation and excellence of its education, driven from its core by practice-based educators.

Tricia Smith, lecturer in general practice nursing at Plymouth University, says the programme offered at the university is special, because it is ‘delivered by clinicians and focuses on a work-based learning programme.’ On being asked how she felt about the team winning the award, she said, ‘It is such a pleasure when you get to see all your hard work paying off.’

Keen to continue its trend of success, the University aims to introduce a number of new, shorter modules in the hope of providing nurses and health care assistants with a high quality qualification that supports their personal development. ‘We plan to do a module on tissue viability, and a short programme on family planning and sexual health,’ said Tricia Smith. We are also developing a course for health care assistants in general practices.’

Taken from Practice Nursing, published 14 Dec 2012.