Wrexham University is celebrating the success of two nursing students at the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Wales Nurse of the Year Awards.
The annual awards recognise outstanding contributions to nursing and healthcare across Wales, celebrating innovation, leadership, and excellence in patient care.
Alwen Sayer, Student Nurse (Adult), was named Nursing Student Award Winner, while Abbie Sanders, Student Nurse (Child), achieved Runner-Up in the same category. Both students demonstrated exceptional professionalism, compassion, and commitment to evidence-based practice throughout their studies and clinical placements.
The RCN Wales Nursing Awards bring together healthcare professionals from across the country to honour achievements that make a real difference to patients, families, and communities. Categories span clinical excellence, leadership, education, and innovation, highlighting the vital role nurses play in shaping the future of healthcare.
Paul Davies, Deputy Vice-Chancellor at Wrexham University, said:
“We are immensely proud of Alwen and Abbie for their outstanding success at the RCN Wales Nurse of the Year Awards. Their achievements exemplify the dedication, compassion, and professionalism that define nursing at Wrexham University.
“These accolades not only celebrate their individual excellence but also highlight the strength of our nursing programmes and the commitment of our staff to shaping the future of healthcare. Congratulations to both students for representing our university so brilliantly on a national stage.”
Alison Lester-Owen, Principal Lecturer and Professional Lead in Nursing at Wrexham University, said:
“The whole Pre-Registration nursing team are incredibly proud of Alwen and Abbie. Their success reflects not only their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to nursing, but also the high standards of nurse education at Wrexham University.
“Alwen and Abbie studied at our St Asaph campus, and we really are delighted that their hard work has been acknowledged on such a prestigious and nationally recognised platform as the RCN Wales.
“These awards showcase the impact nurses have every day, caring for the people of Wales and beyond. It’s truly inspiring to see our students recognised at this level putting Wrexham University at the forefront of nurse education delivery.”
Paul Flanagan, Principal of Coleg Llandrillo at Grŵp Llandrillo Menai, said:
“Alwen is a shining example of how the North Wales Tertiary Alliance is transforming education in our region.
“Through this collaborative approach, Alwen successfully completed the Certificate of Higher Education in Healthcare Practice at the college, creating a clear and accessible progression pathway into higher education. This Alliance is all about opening doors, increasing participation, and ensuring learners like Alwen can access the skills and opportunities they need to thrive.”
Angela Wood, Executive Director of Nursing at Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board, said:
“This year’s RCN Awards has again demonstrated the strength of nursing across North Wales. My congratulations to every winner and nominee — your work reflects the values and standards we aim for every day.
“Student nurses play a crucial role in our services and our future workforce. Thank you for your ambition, your professionalism, and your commitment to patients. We are proud to work alongside you, and we extend our congratulations to all of this year’s award recipients across our health board.”
