A FINAL-year student nurse has responded to the government's appeal to start her nursing practice early to support the NHS in the fight against Covid-19.

Alisha Carter, 21, a former Richmond School student, is currently in her final year as a student paediatric nurse at Teesside University.

Miss Carter volunteered to help on the front line during the Covid-19 crisis and has been deployed to the James Cook University Hospital where she is working as a band four aspirant neonatal nurse.

This opportunity will enable her to put her skills into practise and contribute much-needed support, while gaining experience, being a great asset to the NHS and making a difference to those she cares for.

Miss Carter is due to qualify in September. She jumped at the opportunity to help and is delighted with her new role.

She said: “During my second year, I found a passion for neonatal nursing. Seeing the difference you make to families is extremely rewarding and I quickly realised this is the area where my heart is.

"I have been extremely fortunate to be placed at the neonatal unit at James Cook for my extended placement.

"It has all happened very quickly and after a full-day induction I started my clinical shifts. It is very exciting, but quite daunting too however, I am fortunate that I have already completed a nine-week placement on the unit, so I know the routine and the amazing team I am working with”.

While at college Miss Carter attended a three-day work experience placement on paediatrics at South Tees Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust and this reinforced her passion for child nursing. She also attended a Discovery Day at Teesside University’s School of Health and Life Sciences.

Her former teacher Caroline Dawson, lead teacher for Health and Social Care, commented: “I taught Alisha Health and Social Care at GCSE and A-level. She learned to use her initiative and developed independence and resilience throughout her sixth-form studies.

"Always interested and hard-working, Alisha faced up to her responsibilities and persisted in overcoming challenges.

"Through sheer hard work and dedication, she achieved three As and I was delighted that she secured one of the limited places available for Child Nursing at Teesside University.

"I feel so privileged to have had the opportunity to support and influence Alisha and I am immensely proud that she is stepping up to help in the fight against Covid-19.

"I know she will quickly become a valued part of the neonatal team.”

During her first year at university, her article on ‘when the unthinkable happens’, for the Royal College of Nursing Student Magazine was published online and was chosen as one of the few articles to be released in the printed issue.

Miss Carter was also a student ambassador for Teesside University where her role involved promoting the university and talking to schools about the role of a nurse. She looks forward to returning to Richmond Sixth Form College to share her experiences of nursing and mentor students in healthcare.