Two “dedicated and passionate” Black Country teams which develop thousands of healthcare staff have been shortlisted for a prestigious national award.

The Nurse Education Team at Faculty of Research and Clinical Education (FORCE) at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust and The Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust (RWT) have been jointly shortlisted.

They are finalists at the Student Nursing Times Awards for Nurse Education Provider Post Registration Team of the Year.

Between them, they are responsible for the education of more than 6,000 Nurses, Midwives and Allied Health Professionals.

Claire Flatt, Matron for Post Registration Education for both Trusts, said: “We are incredibly proud to be shortlisted.

“Our teams have led the way in creating a collaborative, sustainable approach to post-registration education.

“By pooling resources and sharing best practices, we have built innovative learning opportunities that empower staff, enhance patient care, and help grow and retain talent.

“This recognition is a testament to our teams’ dedication and passion, committed to developing a skilled and resilient future workforce.”

Initiatives demonstrating the teams’ commitment to professional development and exceptional healthcare delivery with a sustainable approach include:

• Digitalisation of eLearning
• Joint development days
• Leadership development
• Preceptorship programme
• Bite-sized Education Support Training (BEST) sessions
• Clinical skills
• Accredited modules

In addition, Kimberley Rochelle-Davis, Practice Education Facilitator at RWT, has been shortlisted as a Learner of the Year finalist in the Post-Registration category.

Kimberley’s dedication to lifelong learning and workforce development has been instrumental in transforming preceptorship across both Trusts.

Preceptorship is a period of structured transition to support newly-qualified staff from students to autonomous professionals.

As seconded Lead for Preceptorship, she implemented a joint preceptorship programme and policy with her team.

This aligned education and support for newly-qualified Nurses, Midwives, and AHPs across both hospital and community settings.

Her commitment to professional growth is further demonstrated in her role as module lead for a new Beyond Preceptorship programme, to enhance career pathways and support staff retention.

“It was a really big surprise to be nominated, let alone shortlisted,” said Kimberley, 37. “I feel humbled but appreciative of the recognition and it has meant a great deal to me both professionally and personally.

“I love seeing other people grow and thrive through the provision of education and support services, and being shortlisted for this award makes me feel my work truly makes a difference.”

Claire added: “Kimberley’s ability to apply her learning to real-world challenges, drive innovation in education, and foster a culture of collaboration makes her a truly deserving nominee.”

Walsall and RWT are up against three other NHS Trusts while Kimberley is one of 12 in her category.

Winners will be announced on Friday 2 May at the JW Marriott Grosvenor House Hotel.