Attending the OU-RCN Strategic Alliance launch were a number of notable guests including Dr Peter Carter, Chief Executive and General Secretary of the RCN, and Professor Brenda Gourley, Vice-Chancellor of the OU. Dr Carter spoke about his enthusiasm for the alliance and its potential to widen the educational opportunities of the health profession. The 'Strategic Alliance Newsletter' described the moment when Mrs Kelly and one of her fellow students came forward to speak as 'perhaps the most moving moment' of the evening.

Mrs Kelly took to the stand with an in-depth presentation on her decision to enrol on a BSc (Hons) degree in Nursing Practice (Older People). Her speech, which discussed 'the bigger picture' of nursing practice and the differences that nurses can make to the patient experience, represented the dynamic and proactive nature of our nursing staff which King Edward VII's Hospital Sister Agnes is so proud of.

Mrs Kelly talked about the impact studying for this qualification has had on her, both professionally and personally. She emphasised her appreciation of the support that she received in making the decision to study for her degree, and the flexibility afforded to her by the Hospital's Matron, Miss Caroline Cassels, and Unit Manager of the Short Stay Ward, Mr James McStraw. She reflected that the learning experience has helped to increase her confidence in order to promote new nurse led initiatives. An example of this is her organisation of the Chief Nursing Officer, Professor Chris Beasley's visit the Hospital last summer, recently documented on our website. Importantly, Mrs Kelly spoke about how her learning had enabled her to 'challenge injustices and ageist attitudes that are often directed at vulnerable older people'. This being of particular ongoing interest to Mrs Kelly who tailored her degree to reflect her interest in 'the care of older people and [the ways to] maximise their potential so they can live as independently as possible, following discharge from hospital.'

Mrs Kelly has been able to put her learning into practice in her role as Discharge Coordinator at the Hospital. She has played a vital role in revolutionising discharge procedures at King Edward VII's Hospital Sister Agnes and has found the skills developed through her degree invaluable. She said: "On a professional level the degree has given me insight into reflective nursing practice. Whilst it has been challenging, it has given me greater discipline and insight into all levels of healthcare." Furthermore, Mrs Kelly conveyed the importance of developing nurse leaders within the nursing profession and how she aimed to "implement the knowledge [I have] gained back into Hospital in the form of various projects and teaching packages."

Since speaking at the London launch of the Strategic Alliance Mrs Kelly has subsequently been invited to give a similar speech East of England launch at Addenbrooke's Hospital, Cambridge, on the 20th May 2008.