8 September 2026
"This journey has challenged me, shaped me and reminded me every day why I chose this profession"
Roanna Williamson receiving a certificate from CNTW’s Chief Executive James Duncan
A University of Sunderland nursing apprentice has been recognised nationally for her contribution to the NHS.
Roanna Williamson, from South Shields, has been awarded a prestigious Chief Nursing Officer Award for Student Excellence.
Roanna is a nursing assistant working for the Cumbria, Northumberland, Tyne and Wear (CNTW) NHS Foundation Trust’s Learning Disability In-Reach and Transitions Team (LDITT). The team aims to enhance care in mental health wards by offering specialist support to people with learning disabilities, including those who are also autistic.
Roanna has received the award for Outstanding Individual Contribution, for students who go above and beyond in their role within university, practice or community settings.
It recognises and celebrates the contribution of nursing, midwifery and nursing associate students and apprentices.
Last week, Roanna was joined by her family, colleagues and representatives from the University at a ceremony at Hopewood Park in Sunderland.
On winning the award, she said: “Receiving this award means so much to me. It’s a reminder that all the hard work, determination, challenges and learning along the way have been worth it.
“As an apprentice Learning Disability Nurse, I am incredibly proud of how far I have come. This journey has challenged me, shaped me and reminded me every day why I chose this profession.
“I am passionate about providing compassionate, person-centred care and advocating for the voices, rights and wellbeing of people with learning disabilities.
"Everyone who knows me knows that my patients always come first, and this is something I will continue to carry with me throughout my nursing career.”
Roanna is in her final year of the Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship, which is split between working in healthcare and learning at the University.
She said: “I would like to thank CNTW NHS Trust for giving me the opportunity to undertake my nurse training through the apprenticeship programme and for supporting me throughout my journey. I would also like to thank the University for the continued support, encouragement and belief in me.
“To think that I am now only eight months away from qualifying is truly remarkable. There have been times when I never thought I would be able to do it, but with determination, hard work and the support of those around me, I have realised that it is possible.”
Consultant nurse Kerry Smith, who nominated Roanna for the award, said: “We’re so proud. Roanna is one of the best nurses I have ever worked with, and she’s not even qualified yet.
“This award shows just how special she is.”
The nomination praised Roanna’s ability to develop positive, trusting relationships with patients, often when others haven’t been able to.
It also included feedback from colleagues and patients, with people saying, “Everyone should have a Roanna” and that she “embodies what learning disability nursing should be”.
At the ceremony, CNTW’s Chief Executive James Duncan, said: “This award isn’t a surprise to me. I met Roanna around five years ago when she first started and what comes through is her passion and care. She has a love for the job she does and the people she supports.”
Emma Bailey, Principal Lecturer Learning and Teaching - Pre Registration Nursing Education (Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship and Student Nursing Associate Foundation Degree) at the University of Sunderland, said: “This is an amazing achievement for Roanna, but I am not surprised.
“Roanna has always been compassionate and caring, and it is fabulous to see her developing in her apprenticeship nursing role. She will be an asset to the profession.”
For more information on the University of Sunderland’s BSc (Hons) Registered Nurse Degree Apprenticeship, click here.