As we approach the end of a bustling and successful academic term, it’s the perfect moment to reflect on the outstanding achievements and collaborative spirit that define our medical school community.
This month, I had the privilege of celebrating the exceptional accomplishments of our students at the Prize Evening. It was a night full of glitz and glamour as prize winners and their guests gathered at Cedar House to recognise the hard work, dedication, and excellence demonstrated throughout the 2023-2024 academic year. The evening highlighted the outstanding talent and commitment that make our school so special. It is so inspiring to hear the stories behind the projects and performances, and equally charming to see family and friends beaming with pride!
Our Medical Careers Fair also took place this month, where 235 of our students had the opportunity to meet with 74 clinicians representing 52 specialties. The event was a fantastic success and a valuable opportunity for students to explore the vast range of career paths within medicine and gain insights that can shape their plans and projects for the year ahead. I am grateful to all of the clinicians who generously gave their time and expertise, helping guide the next generation of healthcare professionals.
Indeed, thoughts on how the Government will shape the future of the NHS, and especially on how medical training and careers will underpin this, were discussed at the annual away gathering of UK medical schools that I attended this month. New discovery and new pathways mean medical care will continue to be constantly and rapidly evolving and curricula and types of training will need to evolve in turn, and colleagues in the School are already piloting innovations to support this, such as remote GP placement training. If, reading about the government consultation gives you ideas about how a medical course could look in 5 or 10 year’s time, it would be great to hear from you!
However, coming back to 24-25, I’d like to highlight the opportunity to take a moment to recognise the extraordinary contributions of your peers. Whether it’s through a Student Shout Out or a Spirit Prize nomination, these small acts of recognition can make a significant difference and serve to inspire others to continue their hard work. You’ll even find a gratitude box in the Student Hub courtesy of LivPsych, another way to show someone you appreciate the difference they are making. It's the small acts like these that really do go a long way.
Speaking of inspiration, I’d like to note two exceptional students who have recently been honoured with the Spirit of Liverpool School of Medicine Prize for the 2023-2024 year. Dr Emily Kelly, whose innovative research at the Clatterbridge Cancer Centre demonstrates resilience and a deep commitment to improving patient care, was awarded for her outstanding contribution to medical science. Additionally, Emmanuella Adu was recognised for her proactive and compassionate approach to supporting peers and students across healthcare disciplines, ensuring that everyone around her is empowered to achieve their academic goals.
As with any of our successes, thanks and praise also go to the team around us for their support and encouragement. In a similar spirit of collaboration and teamwork, our First-Year Student Doctors had the opportunity to take part in a teambuilding day at RAF Woodvale. This event marked a continuation of our partnership with Liverpool’s 206 MMR Field Hospital, providing our Year 1 students with invaluable experience in working together and learning from each other. It was a great day of personal development and professional growth, and I am confident it will leave a lasting impact on all involved.
As we move forward into the final weeks of the semester, I encourage everyone to continue to support each other, celebrate successes big and small, and take full advantage of the many opportunities this school has to offer. We are privileged to be part of a community that values collaboration, innovation, and patient-centred care.
Wishing you all continued success as we approach the end of another exceptional term.