From doubt to distinction: Madge’s Open University experience

After a year of hard work and dedication, Madge Macdonald-Spence, Assistant Practitioner with the Macmillan Nursing Team in Uist and Barra, has achieved a Higher Education in Healthcare Practice with distinction. Madge is sharing her experience of studying through the Open University to encourage anyone who is doubting themselves to go for it.

“When I first started working with the NHS as an Auxiliary Nurse, I went on to complete my Level 2 and 3 qualifications in Health and Social Care. Over the years, many of my managers and mentors within NHS Lothian encouraged me to consider nursing training. But honestly, I always said no I didn’t believe I could do it.

In 2020, I made a big life change and relocated to the Western Isles after securing a post with the Community Team in Uist and Barra. Then, in 2022, I joined the Macmillan Team, where an exciting opportunity came my way. At the end of 2023, I was offered a place on the Open University’s Healthcare Practice course, supported by my employer, NHS Western Isles and my colleagues in the Macmillan Team in Uist & Barra.

The flexibility of the course offered on a full or part-time basis meant I could continue my clinical role while studying. I chose to take on two modules over one year. It was definitely a challenge, especially while working full-time, committing many evenings and weekends, and stepping into university-level study for the first time. But with the encouragement and support of my colleagues and family, I believed I could do it.

And I did. I’m incredibly proud to share that I have officially completed the Healthcare Practice course, this is a significant milestone in both my career and personal life.

This past year has been both demanding and deeply rewarding. I’ve gained invaluable knowledge and hands-on experience in areas such as end-of-life care, infection prevention and control, person-centred care, and effective communication. More than that, I’ve developed greater confidence, resilience, and the ability to remain calm and compassionate even in the most emotionally complex situations.

One of the most profound areas of personal growth has been learning how to navigate emotionally challenging conversations particularly in palliative care. With the guidance of course tutors and the unwavering support of my colleagues, I now feel much more equipped to support patients and families through their most difficult moments.

Completing this course has strengthened not only my clinical skills but also my understanding of what it truly means to deliver high-quality, compassionate, person-centred care. I feel more ready than ever to support my team, meet the pressures of a busy healthcare environment, and make a lasting difference in the lives of those we care for.

Looking ahead, I’m excited to continue building on this foundation. I welcome new opportunities for learning and development, and I’m proud of how far I’ve come.

To anyone considering the Open University pathway: go for it. With determination, support, and a passion for caring, you can achieve more than you think.

Thank you to everyone who supported me on this journey your encouragement made all the difference.”

Congratulations to Madge on this fantastic achievement, we wish you all the best in your new role as Assistant Practitioner.

If you’d like more information on studying and working with NHS Western Isles you can visit our website: https://www.wihb.scot.nhs.uk/get-involved/working-studying-and-volunteering/.