Supervising, Supporting Learning and Coaching

Abstract

This chapter presents an overview and a discussion of the findings of an innovative and collaborative project that aimed to challenge current practices and cultures within nurse education practice environments. Through a process of inquiry, the project team sought to transform the student experience and strengthen a team-based approach to education in practice. Ensuring a consistently positive learning experience in the clinical learning environment (CLE) has been found to be challenging, as learning may be hindered by the complexity of practice. Partnership is essential in the learning process—there are multiple stakeholders which influence students socialisation to nursing and we need to explore these aspects and consider how best to use the support and approaches to enable students to achieve and be successful in their professional learning in practice. The project, known as Strengthening Team-based Education in Practice (STEP) emerged from critical dialogue with Health Education England (HEE), most specifically the London local office, in relation to the enhancement of education in practice for nursing and midwifery students. This is based within the UK but the key findings, recommendations and resources for practice learning and support are applicable to any practice situation where nurses are educated and prepared.