Our News

Tonicha Patterson, a Student Nurse who cares for the youngest patients at Peterborough City Hospital has been named Student Nurse of the Year for Children, at the prestigious Student Nursing Times Awards.

The awards ceremony brought together the nursing community from across the UK to celebrate the outstanding achievements of student nurses, midwives, educators, and mentors. This year's event highlighted the dedication, compassion, and innovation shaping the future of nursing and midwifery and Tonicha's success stood out as a shining example.

Tonicha who is an undergraduate at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU), Peterborough, was nominated for the award for a wide range of exceptional qualities and accomplishments during her placements. Her passion for children's nursing and family-centred care has been heralded as evident throughout her training, with her commitment to holistic, compassionate practice consistently recognised by colleagues and mentors.

Tonicha said: “Since childhood I've always wanted to be a children's nurse and my previous experience as a healthcare assistant helped prepare me for this journey.  

“The mix of university theory and placements has been beneficial, I've loved building my knowledge and enjoyed learning the importance of care planning ensuring these are holistic, patient-focused and family-centred. I have been able to apply this on placement. My placements at Peterborough City Hospital include working on Amazon Ward, in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and the Paediatric Emergency Department - the staff were extremely supportive of my learning and development needs, and I don't think I would have won this award without the confidence and support that the team provided me with. I will be forever grateful to the team for helping me to shape my confidence and skills.  

“One of the best things about paediatric nursing is that the learning never stops. I'm passionate about neonatal care and paediatric oncology, but I've enjoyed every placement. Wherever I go next, it will be a privilege to work in a role I've always dreamed of, so wherever I end up it will be rewarding to be doing what I love!"