Supporting next generation of doctors earns RJAH Stars recognition

February’s RJAH Stars Award has been presented to a Medical Clinical Placement Facilitator at Shropshire’s specialist orthopaedic hospital – celebrating outstanding commitment to medical education and supporting future doctors.

Dawn Taylor, who has worked at The Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital for more than 25 years, was recognised for the exceptional support she provides to medical students throughout their placements – helping them feel welcomed, supported and confident during their time at RJAH.

Emily Lewis, Education, Training and Development Manager, nominated Dawn for the monthly award.

She said: “Dawn goes above and beyond on every single shift to ensure that medical students are fully supported and able to get the very best out of their placement at RJAH.

“The feedback she has received to date has been outstanding and I am so proud to manage her. She truly oozes our Trust values and remains positive and approachable even when met with challenges.

“Nothing is ever too much trouble – Dawn is an absolute pleasure to work with and a true asset to the Trust. If I could clone her, I would!”

The RJAH Stars Award celebrates individuals or teams across the Oswestry-based hospital who go above and beyond to demonstrate excellence, compassion and commitment in their roles.

Dawn said: “I was really surprised to receive this award. RJAH has been such a huge part of my life, having started here in 1997 as a Healthcare Assistant, before completing my nursing training in 2009. I worked as a Staff Nurse until moving into my current role in 2024.

“RJAH has given me so many opportunities throughout my career and it means a lot to be recognised by Emily for my work.

“I absolutely love my role. Supporting students coming into the Trust is a real privilege and knowing they feel supported, valued and confident and enjoy their experience here makes it all worthwhile.”

Dawn was presented with her award by Stacey Keegan, Chief Executive, and received a certificate, voucher and chocolates thanks to the League of Friends.

She said: “As a Trust, we have been working towards having medical students to join us on placement for some time, and the support Dawn provides has been invaluable in making that a success.

“The feedback we receive from students is excellent and is a real credit to Dawn’s, hard work, commitment and passion for education. She’s a very worthy winner of the RJAH Stars Award.”