A healthcare support worker from Hawick is celebrating a significant career achievement after successfully completing her SVQ Level 3 Healthcare Support Clinical Award at Borders College.
Gemma Smail, who works at Hawick Health Centre within NHS Borders Podiatry, has reached this important milestone following a period of dedicated study alongside her role in healthcare.
Reflecting on her experience, Gemma explained how the course encouraged her to look at her work from a new perspective. She highlighted the value of reflective practice and the importance of taking time to better understand and deliver person-centred care. The qualification has allowed her to deepen her knowledge and apply this directly within her day-to-day role.
Gemma also praised the support she received throughout her learning journey, thanking both her colleagues within NHS Borders Podiatry and the team at Borders College. She paid particular tribute to her tutor, Lorraine Ballantyne, for her ongoing guidance and encouragement.
Lorraine Ballantyne, Tutor/Assessor at Borders College, said:
"Gemma is the first podiatry Healthcare Support Worker to achieve this qualification in her NHS Health Board. Her hard work and dedication have really shone through, and her knowledge and experience in podiatry have been a real strength. You should be very proud of this achievement, Gemma. I wish you continued success as you build on this and progress in your healthcare career."
Gemma’s success highlights the impact of professional development opportunities in supporting healthcare staff to enhance their skills and confidence, ultimately improving patient care. Her achievement is an inspiring example of how commitment to learning can lead to both personal and professional growth within the healthcare sector.