Darren Smith, 46, from Stevenage, is in the running for the Adult Nursing Student of the Year category in the Student Nursing Times Awards.

Darren said: “I was surprised when I heard that I had been nominated for the awards. However, to be shortlisted is one of my proudest moments ever.”

Darren is studying a flexible Nursing degree course at the University which allows healthcare assistants and practitioners to enhance existing skills and become registered nurses in 18 months, enabling students to stay in work as they study.

As well as studying, Darren works in the Renal Unit at the Lister Hospital in Stevenage as an Assistant Practitioner where he assists with the care of patients on dialysis.

Before nursing, Darren was a postman for over 20 years until he decided to make a change.

“I was just going into work and going home, I wasn’t doing anything different. Everyone said I was mad for leaving but, with everything I have achieved since, it’s the best decision I’ve ever made,” said Darren.

Shortlisted candidates for the Adult Nursing Student of the Year category need to demonstrate a broad understanding of a range of conditions and treatments, and an in-depth understanding of the nursing profession and its responsibilities.

The University’s Portfolio Lead for Pre-registration Nursing Dr Sue Higham said: “We are really proud of Darren having been shortlisted for this award. His success illustrates the value of having diverse routes to nursing qualifications. His calm, gentle manner and subtle leadership skills make him an asset to any clinical team.”

Darren will find out if he has won the award at an awards ceremony at the London Hilton on Park Lane on 27 April.