University of Sunderland

Jonathan Hindmarsh

If there's one word that keeps recurring when speaking to Jonathan Hindmarsh and his mum Pauline about his Pharmacy degree at Sunderland, it's quality - quality of teaching, quality of support and quality of facilities.

Jonathan, 22, says the support and the right type of teaching he received at the University had a very large part to play in him being offered a place as a pre-registration clinical pharmacist at Sunderland Royal Hospital.

He also acknowledges that the forward thinking and flexible approach to teaching at Sunderland helped him to achieve a first-class honours, as well as receiving an award from the Royal Pharmaceutical Society.

"The teaching was excellent. I was taught by people who had worked in clinical pharmacy and knew exactly what I needed in the outside world. They spoke from experience and what they taught me was so relevant to what I do now. It couldn't have been better," says Jonathan, who lives in Silksworth, Sunderland.

"One academic in particular was exceptional. The things he taught me I am implementing now in my role, even at this early training stage. I was not just given reading lists and told to get on with it like some universities do. The teaching was very hands on.

"The lab work and equipment was excellent. Everything spoke quality. A lot of universities couldn't offer some of the lab work we did and you would only be able to read about it in books. You could see a lot of money had been spent on research and resources.

"The timetable structure was also great for me, allowing me the time I needed away from the class and labs to ensure I had the time to prepare.

"Basically, there was a clear understanding of what is needed to get the best out of you and to prepare you for life after university.

"The lecturers were always there for advice and support. I don't remember once not being able to speak to someone.

"It's not an easy course and there's plenty of work to be done. To do well you have to play your part. I did work hard but I'm delighted with the outcome."

Jonathan's mum, Pauline is delighted with his choice of course and career path. "As a mother it's important your son or daughter are happy in what they do and where they go in their life. From listening to him during his four years I could tell he was happy with the course and he was getting the support he needed.

"I'm delighted he went to Sunderland to study Pharmacy as it's obviously a well taught course. I had no reservations about him doing pharmacy there as I knew it was a centre of excellence. We are lucky it's on our doorstep.

"He's worked hard and I think through the quality of the course and the support and expertise of the academics he got the best chance to get ahead in his career. The fact he was offered a pre-registration place certainly says that.

"I'm very proud of him. He's got a great job in a great profession, so as mother I'm delighted."