Celebrating achievement at the STAR Awards 2013

Learning and teaching achievements at West Middlesex University Hospital were celebrated at this year’s STAR (staff training and recognition) Awards on 15 October in the Rumbles Restaurant.

Staff across the hospital were nominated by managers and colleagues for their dedicated efforts in achieving qualifications, and providing tuition and mentorship.

The guest speaker was Masterchef food critic Andy Hayler, who using his unconventional career path as an example, gave an inspiring talk about pursing opportunities that may arise in your career; which in his case, lead to him becoming a food critic out of what began as a hobby.

Osaeloke Osakwe, Specialist Registrar, was presented with the overall award for Inspirational Teaching. He has been hailed by his Imperial College medical students, who described him as “one of the best Consultant tutors on any attachment, anywhere” for his engaging tutorials, clinical feedback and friendly support which ensured a quality learning experience in Obstetrics & Gynaecology’.

On receiving the award Osaeloke said: “I’m pleasantly surprised to be nominated and even more surprised to win! I am very grateful to those who nominated me and to the Trust for giving me this award. I am delighted that my contribution to teaching has been recognised. This will definitely encourage me to teach even more and I hope it will encourage others to do the same.”

A number of staff successfully completed the Leadership and Management course which explores the current contemporary issues in healthcare practice and aims to critically evaluate leadership and management theories, and utilise this process of change in a positive and empowering way. A special mention was given to Children’s Community Nurse Sarah Glencrose who received the highest mark in her project.

Certificates and colourful bouquets were presented by Chief Executive Dame Jacqueline Docherty and Mayor of Richmond, Meena Bond.

The awards were organised by the learning and development team, led by Assistant DirectorKaren Boakes.

She explained: “Lots of teaching, mentoring and training goes on here throughout the year, including support for staff working towards qualifications with other learning institutions.

“Staff manage to balance this with their busy roles and are so dedicated because it’s all about providing even better care for patients. It’s a pleasure to be able to celebrate their achievements.”