University celebrates national awards in nursing and midwifery

The University of Plymouth has triumphed in two categories of the Student Nursing Times Awards 2025
Student Nursing Times Awards 2025 apprenticeship winners

The University of Plymouth is celebrating after winning two categories at the biggest event in student nursing education.
Plymouth won the Student Nursing Times Award for Apprenticeship Provider of the Year, and third-year student Pip Raud won Student Midwife of the Year.

Apprenticeship Provider of the Year

Degree apprenticeships enable employees to study for a degree in a field related to their job while maintaining their employment, and the University of Plymouth was hailed as a ‘shining example’ of delivering this successfully in nursing.

This passionate and dedicated team truly championed the life-changing potential of the apprenticeship route.

Their inclusive approach to learning ensures that everyone has the opportunity to engage, thrive, and succeed. 
The judges were particularly impressed by the innovation woven throughout the curriculum and the powerful, real-world impact – transforming not only the lives of learners but also enriching the wider service user and carer community. 
A shining example of apprenticeships at their very best.

Judges' comments 

Having been shortlisted for the inaugural award last year, we’re delighted to have gone one further and won this year.

What we do is a real team effort, as our apprenticeship programme leads and academic teaching teams work collaboratively with professional services colleagues and the University’s central apprenticeship hub across our pre registration and post registration apprenticeship programmes. 
Our work is focused on meeting the needs of our apprentices, employers, stakeholders and ultimately patients and service users in the South West and beyond, so we’re very much celebrating this award with everyone involved. 

Caroline JamisonMrs Caroline Jamison
Associate Professor of Nursing and Academic Lead for Apprenticeships

Student Midwife of the Year

Pip Raud embarked on a career in Midwifery after personal experience ignited a passion – read Pip's story .
Pip said of her win:
“It’s the biggest surprise but I’m so grateful and absolutely delighted. I took the leap back into study and there were lots of unknowns for me, but thanks to support from my family, the University and placement providers, I know I absolutely made the right decision.”
Pip Raud Student Nursing Times Award winner Student Midwife of the Year 2025
Pip Raud Student Nursing Times Award winner Student Midwife of the Year 2025

The judges were deeply impressed by Pip Raud’s outstanding clinical knowledge and skill – particularly in antenatal care and the induction of labour.

Compassionate, reflective, and driven by a desire to continually improve, Pip places those in her care firmly at the centre of her practice. Service user feedback highlighted her empathy and the positive, person-centred experiences she creates. 
Pip showed remarkable courage in navigating challenging situations, always prioritising safety and family wellbeing. Her ability to bridge the gap between research and practice, combined with exceptional interpersonal skills and a collaborative approach within multidisciplinary teams, sets her apart. 
The profession is truly fortunate to welcome such a dedicated and visionary midwife. The judges congratulate Pip and wish her every success in the journey ahead. 

Judges' comments 

Midwifery skills sessions. Nursing and midwifery facilities