The Health Academy are delighted to share that the Professional Education Development Team was nominated for “Course Team of the Year” at the 16th annual Golden Roses Awards, hosted by the University of Central Lancashire Students’ Union.
With one of the Teams’ Clinical Nurse Tutors, Bhavana Thounaojam, also receiving a nomination for “Lecturer of the Year”!
The Golden Roses celebrate the staff and student reps who go above and beyond to make university life exceptional—and the best part? The nominations come directly from students.
One student described the Professional Education Development Team as a group that “always go that extra mile.” Adding, “they understand the struggles us student nurses have because they’ve been in our position! Teaching is always explained and taught well.”
Bhavana’s nomination was equally glowing:
“Bhavana is an exceptional teacher and personal tutor. She’s an overseas nurse now teaching on the PBP at Preston College—extremely knowledgeable and able to explain things in a way that just clicks. Her professionalism and organisational skills are fantastic, and I always know she’ll reply to emails quickly. She’s supportive, encouraging, and somehow managing her PGCE while delivering the new PBP degree across multiple cohorts. She makes me feel like a person, not just a number. An absolute credit to UCLan and to the nursing profession.”
This year saw over 1,200 student nominations celebrating the passion, energy, and support staff bring to their roles. The Awards Ceremony took place on Thursday 1st May, and although the team weren’t successful this time, the nomination alone was a fantastic honour and a testament to their dedication to their students.
Becky Best, Senior Academic Voice Co-ordinator at UCLan Students’ Union, summed it up beautifully: “On behalf of UCLan Students’ Union and its student community – thank you so much for your time, energy and passion.”
Kerry Rae, Clinical Nurse Tutor Lead, said: “We didn’t win—but to be nominated as a team by a student really means so much. It made me smile, and it’s a lovely reminder of how much our work is appreciated.”
The praise kept coming:
Kate Harrison, Head of Professional Education Development, added: “This is amazing. It always means so much more being nominated by students. Well done everyone—you’re doing amazing work.”
And Lauren O’Brien, Deputy Director of Education, echoed the feeling: “Fantastic work everyone—this is great news and thoroughly deserved!”
Massive congratulations to Bhavana and the whole PBP team. You continue to make a real difference—and your students clearly agree.
Here’s to more recognition, more impact, and more golden moments ahead!
