Celebrating clinical supervisors in Central Australia

John Wakerman, Frances Blenkinsop and Jessie Anderson

Flinders NT and the Centre for Remote Health hosted an event in Alice Springs on 5th December to celebrate the clinical supervisors who support health students on placement throughout Central Australia.

This was also a perfect opportunity to acknowledge the Central Australian winners of the Flinders NT Supervisor Awards, which were presented by Professor John Wakerman, Associate Dean, Flinders NT. These awards recognise and celebrate health professionals in the Northern Territory who selflessly dedicate their precious time to prepare our future workforce. Congratulations to all nominees and winners.

During 2018, Flinders NT in Central Australia has supported over 400 allied health, nursing and medical placements originating from over 30 universities. This includes the development of student-led clinics expanding access to underserved areas; fostering interprofessional learning to ensure team-ready graduates; and working with our colleagues at Charles Darwin University and health services to build training and career pathways for the NT.

Central Australian Award winners

Outstanding regional supervisor
The Outstanding Regional Supervisor award recognises Supervisors who have made an outstanding contribution to student supervision within their local region. Nominees were judged on their regular participation in the role of educator / supervisor, attention to best practices in clinical supervision and their willingness to go above and beyond to identify and meet the learning needs of students whilst maintaining enthusiasm for this important role
Winners:
• Allied Health – Meg Simmons, Senior Dentist with Oral Health Services, Flynn Drive Dental Clinic
• Nursing – Cassandra Holland, Clinic Manager, Canteen Creek

Innovative Supervisor award
The Innovative Supervisor award is given to a supervisor who embraces innovation in providing clinical learning experiences. This award recognises a therapist/nurse/doctor who is prepared to do things differently, “innovatively”, in order to meet the learning needs of the student
Winner: John Wright – Nursing Education Consultant, Tennant Creek Hospital

Interprofessional Collaborator Award
The Interprofessional Collaborator award is given to an individual who is recognised by their peers and students for being a good collaborator or leader of interprofessional learning / practice.
Winner: Dr Jennifer Delima – Director of Addictions and Clinical Forensic Medicine at the Sexual Assault Referral Centre

Commitment to Clinical Teaching
This award is given to a supervisor who demonstrates commitment towards the clinical education of student health professionals in the Territory as evidenced by being a frequent and willing participant, supporter and champion of clinical education.
Winner: Conor Harnischfeger, Senior Dentist with Oral Health Services, Flynn Drive Dental Clinic

Territory Ambassador
This award is for a supervisor who students and colleagues recognise as being a strong ambassador for the Northern Territory, making efforts to connect students to the community, and creating a welcoming environment for learners.
Winner: Frances Blenkinsop – Nurse Education Consultant, Central Australian Health Service.

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Centre for Remote Health (CRH)