2020 winner: Mohammad Sahir

Claire Freeman was a WMS student who sadly passed away during her first year of the MB ChB. She is remembered for her inspirational behaviour and support to friends and fellow students, and the Memorial Prize named after her is awarded annually to a student who demonstrates these attributes and displays inspirational leadership beyond the classroom.

The winner of the Claire Freeman Memorial Prize this year is Mohammad Sahir, who received the greatest number of nominations ever received for a single student.

There were three main things which shone out in the nominations.

Firstly, several students mentioned Mohammed’s work with a charitable initiative which supports diabetes treatment for impoverished people living in Pakistan, providing them with access to diagnosis and treatment.

Secondly, several students commented on the work Mohammed has done in leading Regroup – the student-led peer teaching and support group for students facing resit examinations.

Finally it became apparent in nominations that others recognised in Mohammed a constant drive to work toward the support and betterment of others. In addition to his work in Pakistan and his leadership of Regroup, his contribution to the Widening Access to Medicine Society and his advocacy of his peer group at all levels was recognised.

Award for Teaching Excellence for a University-Based Teacher

Winner: Emily Reid

Students nominating Emily said:

• ‘Emily is always supportive and encouraging... she encourages students to aim high.'
• 'Emily helps make everyone be the best version of themselves.'
• 'Emily demonstrates absolute commitment to students as individuals.'

Award for Teaching Excellence for a University-Based Teacher

Commendation: Helen Jones

Students nominating Helen said:

• - ‘Helen always goes the extra mile in her teaching.'
• - 'Her lectures demonstrate careful planning to make them enjoyable and accessible for all.'
• - 'She is highly learner centred – attentive to student questions and highly responsive.'

Award for Teaching Excellence for a University-Based Teacher

Commendation: Erin Fillmore

Students nominating Erin commented on:

• Her availability and willingness to give of her time to help students
• Her ability to make complex topics simple
• Her recognition of different learning styles and ensuring her teaching works for everybody

Award for Teaching Excellence in the NHS

Winner: Dr Amie Burbridge

Students nominating Amie said:

• - 'Amie is immediately friendly and engaging, critically enabling early confidence in students.'

• - 'She empowers students to identify their own learning needs and supports them to achieve these.'

• - 'She encouraged us to draw our own conclusions, taught us at a steady pace and encouraged us to take the lead.'

Personal Tutor Award

Winner: Dawn Collins

Students nominating Dawn said:

- 'She is an extremely kind woman who gives the kind of pastoral support every personal tutor should aspire to.’

- 'Without her support I would not have made it this far.’

Clinical Personal Tutor Award

Winner: Dr Maggie Curley

Students nominating Maggie said:

Winner: Woodview Medical Centre

Students nominating Woodview Medical Centre said:

- The practice went ‘above and beyond’ with respect to teaching.

- The practice stretched them and allowed them to develop confidence – allowing them to lead consultations but within a highly supportive context.

- Both Dr Ong and Dr Shah were commended for their dedication to delivering teaching through challenging consultation role play and case based discussions.

- Reception and administration staff were commended for their welcome and the interest they took in students, nursing staff supported clinical skill development and the whole team were recognised for providing a warm and supportive environment which enabled students to test themselves and develop academic, clinical and professional skills.