Keele celebrates shortlisting success at Student Nursing Times Awards 2026

Keele University has been shortlisted for a Student Nursing Times Award, reflecting its commitment to enhancing learning through creative and meaningful use of digital technology.

The School of Nursing and Midwifery is in the running for the Teaching Innovation of the Year (Digital) award, receiving national recognition for its innovative use of thinglink, a platform that transforms traditional learning materials into interactive, immersive experiences that actively support student development.

In simulated practice, thinglink is having an equally transformative impact. The School has developed a virtual ward round presented as an escape room-style challenge, where students work through realistic clinical scenarios to solve patient-focused puzzles. This innovative approach enables learners to strengthen clinical reasoning, decision-making and patient care skills within a safe, low-stakes digital environment before applying them in real practice settings.

Dr Lizzie Harling, Student Learning and Development Support Officer, led on the introduction of thinglink in the school in 2023.

She said: "Across both academic and clinical contexts, thinglink is supporting students to build confidence, competence and autonomy. This shortlisting recognises the School’s strong commitment to student-centred, technology-enhanced learning and its proactive role in preparing future nurses for an increasingly digital healthcare landscape.

"I'm so proud to work alongside such incredibly dedicated and inspiring colleagues who are passionate about providing impactful learning experiences for our students. Thinglink has transformed learning for our students by integrating interactive clinical simulations and academic skills support.  This approach enhances student engagement, builds confidence, and equips them for clinical practice.

"High engagement, positive feedback, and proven impact demonstrate our success, positioning our approach as a model for digital innovation in healthcare education."

The winners will be announced at a ceremony on April 24th.