A WIDNES nursing cadet student has impressed judges at the UK Skills competition after coming second in the region.

Emma Middlehurst, 18, is now hoping her performance might qualify her to take part in the national finals.

The former Ormiston Chadwick Academy pupil has just completed a two year nursing cadet programme at Cronton Sixth Form College.

She was awarded a triple distinction star grade for her course which has secured her place at Keele University to start a degree in adult nursing in September.

Emma was able to excel in the prestigious competition because of all of the practical knowledge and experience she has gained on her course.

To gain practical experience, she worked on wards at Halton and Warrington hospitals, supporting nurses and caring for patients in a unique partnership between the College and the trust.

Emma said: “I worked hard to prepare for the competition by doing extra training.

“Taking part in the competition has been a great experience and has really encouraged me to achieve my best.

“I am now waiting to hear if I have made it through to the finals.

“I am looking forward to starting my nursing degree.”