Nursing experiences from former learner

Ysgol Emrys ap Iwan welcomed back one their learners, Melissa Sumalinog.

After finishing her degree at Nottingham University, Melissa returned to talk to current learners about her experiences during her time training to become a fully qualified nurse.

Speaking about her work life balance, Melissa spoke to the Year 12 and 13 learners about university life, her placements in hospitals and making sure she met deadlines whilst still having a social life.

Melissa said: “It was great to find time to come to visit my school again before I move to London to take up my first Nursing post at Guy’s Hospital. I was pleased I could pass on my experiences of studying Health and Social Care at Ysgol Emrys ap Iwan with current course learners and explain how I achieved a First Class Honours degree in Nursing from Nottingham University. I will always be grateful for the excellent teaching I had at this school.”

Year 12 Health and Social Care learner Tegan Pilkington said: “Melissa has made me even more determined to pursue nursing as a career. She talked about how she has adapted to the demands of a degree course far away from home. I hope to start developing the same skills during my time in the Sixth Form.”

Year 13 learner Courtney Friday added: “Her motivation is infectious. I am going to work hard on my A2 Health and Social Care course and in my part-time employment in a local care home so that I can be an effective and successful nurse just like Melissa.”

Mr Lee Cummins, Headteacher at Ysgol Emrys ap Iwan said: “It’s great to have successful learners returning to school and sharing their experiences with our current learners.”