Shelly Rowell

I have been part of the University of Sunderland since 2020, initially joining as a Lecturer on the BSc (Hons) Children’s and Young People’s Nursing programme. As a qualified Children’s Nurse since 2008, I brought with me a strong clinical foundation and a passion for supporting the development of future nursing professionals. As my role evolved, I embraced new opportunities and now work as both a Senior Lecturer and Admissions Tutor.

In my current role as Admissions Tutor, I lead on the recruitment and selection of prospective students, overseeing the admissions process from application through to enrolment. This includes reviewing applications, conducting interviews, and ensuring candidates demonstrate the values, skills, and potential required for a career in nursing. I am particularly committed to widening participation, supporting applicants from diverse backgrounds, and ensuring a fair, transparent, and supportive admissions experience. Alongside this, I continue to contribute to teaching, curriculum development, and student support as a Senior Lecturer.

Prior to joining the University, I developed over 12 years of extensive clinical experience within paediatric nursing across the North East. I began my career as a Staff Nurse on general paediatric wards, where I gained a strong grounding in acute care. I then progressed into community nursing, working as a Children’s Community Nurse delivering care closer to home, supporting families, and helping to prevent hospital admissions.

Throughout my clinical career, I have gained broad experience in acute care, palliative care, and safeguarding. My specialist area of practice is in supporting children with neurodisabilities and complex health needs, where I have developed significant expertise in delivering holistic, family-centred care.

I further specialised as a Children’s Epilepsy Nurse Specialist, where I led nurse-led clinics providing education, advice, and ongoing support to children, young people, and their families. In addition, I am a qualified Non-Medical Prescriber, enabling me to enhance patient care through timely and effective treatment management.

I remain passionate about combining my clinical expertise with my academic role to inspire and prepare the next generation of children’s nurses.