Leeds Trinity University has long been committed to providing its students with hands-on learning opportunities that prepare them for the realities of life. One approach is our collaboration with the Army Medical Reserves, which offers students the chance to engage in interdisciplinary and interprofessional working experiences. This collaboration is a significant part of the University's drive to develop well-rounded healthcare professionals, equipping Nursing students not only with technical knowledge but also with essential skills like leadership, communication and teamwork.

As highlighted in the Leeds Trinity Strategic Plan 2021-26, we are dedicated to equipping students with the skills needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. By participating in team-building days and exercises with the Army Medical Reserves, Nursing students are gaining practical experience that directly supports the University’s mission. These activities not only enhance their clinical capabilities but also strengthen their ability to promote themselves as adaptable, resilient professionals, ready for the evolving demands of the healthcare sector.

Leading the day’s events were Sergeant Chris Hirst and Sergeant Kevin Bowles, two highly experienced Army Reserve facilitators. Sgt Hirst, with 33 years of military experience, including logistics roles with the Para Royal Engineers and Army Medical Services, provided valuable insights into both military and medical operations. Sgt Bowles, with 45 years of service as a Combat Medical Technician, brought expertise from trauma care and conflict zones like Iraq and Afghanistan, along with civilian healthcare experience.

Their engaging training sessions challenged students, emphasising adaptability and resilience in healthcare through real-world anecdotes and practical demonstrations. The day’s activities were enlightening, beginning with a scenario where students had to care for visually impaired casualties across a simulated river. Here, students had to assist a peer wearing eye impairment goggles, emphasising the importance of communication, trust and teamwork.

This challenge mirrored real-life situations where nurses must often rely on their colleagues to overcome obstacles and ensure patient safety. Students also got the chance to build a stretcher that could zipline injured soldiers across a ravine and had to use their problem-solving, communication and leadership skills to guide items across a no-man’s land using only ropes. These experiences closely mimic the multidisciplinary teamwork they will face in their future nursing roles, particularly in fast-paced environments like emergency departments or surgical units.

By fostering a partnership with the Army Medical Reserves, Leeds Trinity is preparing its students for the complexities of modern healthcare, where they may need to work alongside paramedics, surgeons and even military personnel in a coordinated effort to deliver the best care possible.

Reflecting on the experience, Nursing students provided plenty of positive feedback on the interactive, collaborative, confidence-boosting and enjoyable nature of the activities that will benefit them in both their studies and careers.

There are currently still places for January 2025 entry available in Clearing. To find out more, or to arrange a call back from an academic, visit leedstrinity.ac.uk/nursing.

Chris Weed is a Senior Lecturer in Adult Nursing at Leeds Trinity University.