A Bolton based student nurse had made to the finals of a major national awards competition.
Carly Lowndes, a 42-year-old mother of three, has been chosen as a finalist in the Student Nurse of the Year of the Student Nursing Times Awards 2024.
The University of Bolton apprentice learner was chosen in the mental health category thanks to the dedication she has brought to her studies, after having spent 20 years out of education.
Ms Lowndes said: “I am really pleased and surprised to be in the final of the awards and want to thank my lecturers for their support.”
Her return to her studies was made possible through the Accreditation of Prior Experiential Learning route, which took her many years of experience with the NHS into account.
Having trained as an assistant practitioner between 2002-2004, Ms Lowndes went on to work with the community mental health team.
As part of the team, she co-ordinated admissions and discharges, and carried out a small caseload.
Since enrolling at Bolton she has brought her wide ranging experience back into her studies.
Nursing lecturer Caroline Rawlinson said: “Despite juggling the responsibilities of caring for three young children, Carly has consistently demonstrated exceptional dedication and commitment.
“She has excelled in both the theoretical and practical aspects of the programme.
“Her clinical proficiency, paired with her compassionate demeanour sets her apart as an exceptional student and role model for her peers.”
Ms Lowndes plans to return to the community mental health team at The Meadows in Stockport once she graduates in September, developing her role to cover out-of-area patients.
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University academics say that they hope there will be many more success stories to follow in her wake amongst their students.
Ms Rawlinson said: “At the University of Bolton, we are fully dedicated to supporting our learners every step of the way.
“Through our emphasis on smaller class sizes and interactive teaching methods, combined with personalised tutorial support, we ensure that our students have a rewarding educational experience.”
The Student Nursing Times Awards will take place on Friday April 26 at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London.
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