A University of Winchester nursing apprentice has been selected for a prestigious leadership scheme.

Registered nurse apprentice Bronwyn Flower-Bond is one of the chosen few to be part of the Council of Deans for Health’s 150Student Leadership Programme.

The programme aims to promote and develop the future generation of nurses, midwives, and allied healthcare professionals by working with first and second-year students.

Bronwyn, who began her nursing apprenticeship in 2023, works as a healthcare assistant at the Royal Hampshire County Hospital in the acute assessment unit.

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Bronwyn, right, during her visit to Sri Lanka with a staff member at Karapitiya teaching hospital (Image: University of Winchester) The 26-year-old started her career with the NHS during the height of the Covid pandemic, having previously worked in a care home.

She now balances her studies with her hospital job.

Bronwyn said: "I would definitely recommend the University of Winchester. I like the fact that we come into the university for in-person learning and how our work placements are spread through the year and across three different places, giving us a wider experience."

She expressed her gratitude to her tutors for encouraging her to apply for the 150Student programme.

Bronwyn was one of just 60 out of 275 applicants to gain a place on the programme, which has an online coaching scheme with access to individuals who are visionary leaders, thinkers, creators, and front runners in their respective disciplines.

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As part of the programme, students are also encouraged to undertake a project.

Bronwyn hopes to establish a local self-help network of apprentices to share their experiences and knowledge of balancing the expectations of work and study.

The 150Student programme began last week with a two-day residential welcome event in Manchester, packed with workshops, lectures, and seminars.

Before this, Bronwyn spent a large chunk of her annual leave doing voluntary work in Sri Lanka.

During her four weeks away, she worked in a hospital, a GP practice, and an orphanage, as well as learning about the island’s traditional medicines.

Despite her busy schedule, Bronwyn also finds time to volunteer with the Sea Cadet Corps.

Elizabeth Davies-Ward, dean of the Faculty of Health and Wellbeing at the University of Winchester, said: "As an active member of the Council of Deans for Health, I am delighted with Bronwyn’s success.

"Bronwyn and her cohort are our future leaders and will contribute most positively to the transformation of the services we provide to our population.

"Well done, Bronwyn!"