A Nelson and Colne College nursing Cadet has returned triumphant from the 13th Cadet Annual Awards ceremony held in Liverpool.

Nursing Cadet Esther Williams received a ‘Special Merit Award’ from Laura Roberts, National Director (North) Health Education England.

“The Annual Cadet Awards are absolutely the highest award given to a nursing cadet,” says Linda Whitfield, Head of Workforce Education at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust.

 In addition to her College studies, Esther has had work placements with East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust.

Esther’s citation for her Special Merit Award states she is “a highly motivated student who is keen to help and support patients. She has made excellent progress in her academic assessments and has glowing reports in her placements. Her team working ethic and communication skills are amazing. Whatever she gets involved in she throws herself in 110%.”

Lynne Harrison, Cadet Scheme Facilitator at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust said: “We are delighted to work in partnership with Nelson and Colne College, Burnley and Blackburn Colleges to provide placements and support for our future nurses.”

In total, 50 cadets from Nelson and Colne College, and Burnley and Blackburn colleges have completed placements at East Lancashire Hospitals NHS Trust since beginning their BTEC Level 3 Extended Diplomas in 2014.

“The Cadet scheme provides both the academic and experiential requirements for application to Higher Education,” added Lynne Harrison.

“We are extremely proud of all our Cadets and look forward to welcoming 56 new Cadets from Nelson & Colne, Blackburn and Burnley colleges in September.”

For more information about studying at Nelson and Colne College contact 01282 440272.