A FORMER Priestley College student has won a scholarship after learning to become an operating department practitioner at Warrington Hospital.
Lauren Monaghan, who studied A-Levels in English Literature, Biology and Chemistry at Priestley, is a third year student at Edge Hill University and trained with Warrington and Halton NHS Foundation Trust throughout the course.
She was awarded her the academic achievement scholarship in recognition of her determination and commitment to her studies. The 21-year-old hopes to become a permanent member of the hospital staff when she graduates.
“I have really enjoyed my time in the theatres, the teams have been so accommodating and give students lots of opportunities to practice – they are a great team to train with and very keen to teach,” said Lauren, from Orford.
“They have made my university journey and I feel my placements helped me be selected as the only ODP student for the scholarship.”
During her time at Priestley the former Beamont Collegiate Academy pupil took part in the Pre-Med programme which is designed to help those who want to pursue a career in the medical profession.
“It was really helpful and allowed me to visit hospitals and engage in practical sessions,” she said. “From the excellent teaching I received especially in the sciences, I was able to take forward the knowledge I gained. This knowledge has helped me excel in my university studies.”
As an ODP, Lauren will assist in patient care before or after surgery with tasks including preparing specialist equipment and drugs as well as assessing and monitoring patients recovering from anaesthesia.
Lauren was nominated for the scholarship in the ‘Personal Achievement’ category by her tutor Rita Hehir, who said she was ‘outstanding in every way an ODP student should be.’
“Lauren consistently earns very high grades in her academic work,” said Rita. “She is an excellent role model and a most wonderful ambassador for the trust and her university.”
