Local nursing lecturer wins national teaching award

A nursing lecturer at Coventry University has been voted the best in her field at a national awards ceremony for the profession. 

Anne McCarthy, course director of the adult nursing programme at the university, won the title of ‘Educator of the Year’ at the prestigious Student Nursing Times Awards 2015, which were held in London last Thursday (7 May). 

Attracting entrants from across the UK in several different categories, the popular annual awards celebrate the achievements of the people and places that are helping to shape the future of the nursing profession. Anne emerged as top educator this year from a final shortlist of nine outstanding nominees from universities throughout the country.

Having completed her training back in 1990, Anne spent a number of years in various roles in clinical practice before taking up teaching full-time at Coventry University in 2012. Since then she has emerged as a well-respected and popular figure amongst both staff and students. 

Anne was nominated for this year’s awards by her students on the basis of her nursing knowledge and inspirational teaching, and for the support and encouragement that she provides to the many trainees who come under her charge.

Speaking after the awards ceremony Anne said: 

I am absolutely thrilled to have been named ‘Educator of the Year’ at the Student Nursing Times Awards.  It’s a great honour for me personally of course but I think it also reflects well on the university as a whole. I’m really happy to be part of the nursing education setup there.

We have dedicated, knowledgeable and hardworking staff alongside first class teaching facilities, which combine to create an excellent learning environment for those wishing to pursue a career in nursing. We also have a steady flow of bright and enthusiastic students – they’re the future of the profession and it’s a real pleasure working with them and watching them progress.

Steve O’Brien, head of the department for nursing, midwifery and healthcare practice at Coventry University, said:  

I’d like to congratulate Anne on her award. We’re delighted for her and very proud to have her on the team here. She has considerable experience in her field and expert knowledge of the subject but just as importantly she is passionate about the profession and very diligent and caring in her approach to teaching. She gives her absolute best in supporting our student nurses on their educational journey.

For further information, please contact Mark Farnan, press officer, Coventry University, on +44 (0)24 7765 8245 or email mark.farnan@coventry.ac.uk.