NI’s first Aspiring Nurse Directors graduate at Stormont

Northern Ireland’s first group of locally trained Aspiring Nurse Directors stepped forward to take their place in transforming health services today.

Department of Health Permanent Secretary Richard Pengelly & CNO Charlotte McArdle congratulated two of the 16 students, Rodney Morton and Heather Finlay who graduated with a Post Graduate Certificate Leadership in Healthcare.

Department of Health Permanent Secretary Richard Pengelly and NI Chief Nursing Officer Charlotte McArdle congratulated 16 students who graduated with a Post Graduate Certificate (PGCert) in Leadership in Healthcare at the Long Gallery, Parliament Buildings, Stormont. The Aspiring Nurse Director Programme has been developed in partnership between London South Bank University and NHS Improvement.   

Richard Pengelly said:  “Northern Ireland’s Aspiring Nurse Directors are our potential future leaders in nursing.  We need more collective leaders from clinical backgrounds to deliver the changes that are required whilst valuing the contribution of all staff and in particular the people who use our services.

“This is the first time the innovative and unique Aspiring Nurse Director Programme has been delivered in Northern Ireland. The programme has been a great success and provided a unique opportunity to learn from a variety of exceptional leaders.”

Charlotte McArdle thanked London Southbank University for providing this programme and to Dr Elaine Maxwell from the National Institute for Clinical Research Dissemination Centre for sharing her expertise and supporting those graduating today.

“It is a matter of huge importance that we develop senior nurses with an understanding of the executive nurse role, broaden their skill set and knowledge in preparation for the transition to the executive nurse role.

“I would like to wish of all our newly qualified Aspiring Nurse Directors, every success as you further your careers and as you continue to lead the way in transforming healthcare delivery that makes a positive impact on the health of our population.”

Notes to editors: 

1. For media queries please contact the Department of Health Press Office on 028 9052 0567 or email pressoffice@health-ni.gov.uk . For out of hours please contact the Duty Press Officer on 028 9037 8110  and your call will be returned.
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