Another academic milestone reached by Teesside students

Joanne Sampson and Michael Cowan have become the second and third students in the country to achieve a first class degree in Social Work/Learning Disabilities Nursing.

They follow last year’s graduate Elspeth Alexander who was the first person to gain this award. In a joint statement Joanne and Michael said that they were in full agreement that the course offered at the University had both equipped and developed their skills, values and attitudes in social work and nursing.

‘First class academic and personal support from experienced and highly respected programme staff, combined with placement support and supervision from some of the finest social workers, nurses and other allied professionals, has enabled us to develop a well-rounded and critically reflective approach to care co-ordination,’ they said. ‘Course co-ordinator Mike Wren deserves a special mention for his support that often went above and beyond the call of duty.’ Both graduates acknowledged that there were challenges in their chosen field, but that those were the foundations for their motivation and determination. ‘We strongly believe that by working in partnership with people who use services and those who support them, change is not only achievable but can also become a meaningful reality.’

Joanne, who was seconded from Tees, Esk and Wear Valley NHS Trust, said she would like to thank the Trust for their investment and continued support throughout the programme. Mike Wren said that both Joanne and Michael had been exceptionally gifted students. ‘Everyone has held them in high esteem since Year 1,’ he said. ‘They have been excellent ambassadors for our programme both within the University and external to it, with our social work and nursing partners in practice and the wider NHS Trust itself.’

He added that their results reflected the hard work, commitment and determination of Joanne, Michael, Elspeth and indeed all the students. He said it was also important to acknowledge the wide range of colleagues who successfully interpret and promote the value of inter-professional learning and joint working into the reality of a safe, effective and efficient programme of education.

Since graduating Joanne and Michael have successfully secured posts within Assertive Outreach teams employed by the Tees, Esk and Wear Valley NHS Trust. Elspeth has since secured a Specialist Social Work (Drugs & Alcohol) post within an integrated team funded by both health and social care services in Middlesbrough.

---