Clinical Placements with Older People
University of Canberra
Faculty of Health
Centre for Ageing Research and Translation (CARAT)
Outstanding Preceptor Awards
What is a Preceptor?
A preceptor is a Registered Nurse (RN), usually employed by the organisation where a student completes their clinical placement. Usually, the RN is involved in direct patient care opposed to an RN in an educator role. Sometimes these RNs are referred to as a student supervisor, or the nurse the student is 鈥渂uddied鈥 with for the entire shift. Students may be supported by different preceptors across their placement.
Purpose of the award?
RNs are required to be preceptors as part of registration standards, but recognition of great preceptors is not that common.
The Outstanding Preceptor Award recognises the commitment, professionalism and positive influence of preceptors in supporting student learning during CPOP Clinical Placements.
Who is eligible to be nominated?
Any RN who served as a preceptor during a student's CPOP placement. Students are encouraged to nominate all preceptors who made a meaningful impact on their placement experience.
Who can't be nominated?
Clinical Facilitators, Educators or Clinical Liaison Nurses are not eligible. People in these roles are usually employed by the university and provide overarching support such as checking in with students, discussing learning goals, completing ANSAT assessments and reviewing reflective workbooks for example.
The award
Award recipients will receive a certificate of recognition and a pre-paid Mastercard, redeemable at a variety of locations. Multiple winners will be selected, and with consent, be profiled to highlight their contribution to the CPOP program where appropriate.

Kelly Green from the aged care provider Bethanie in Western Australia, was recognised for her exceptional kindness, supportive nature and respectful care of both residents and students.
Upon receiving the award, she said:
鈥淚t's a great honour. I'm totally amazed and delighted. I love my job and love teaching the students coming through.鈥
Samir Adhikari from Canberra Health, was recognised for his patience, strong therapeutic relationships and supportive approach to student learning. He ensured students felt safe, offered tailored learning opportunities and made their wellbeing a priority. Students described working with him as a pleasure.
Upon receiving the award, he said:
鈥淚t is a great opportunity to work with students and guide them positively in their early stage. Thank you for allowing to work and show them positive outcome towards their professional life path.鈥


Michael Chua from Hall and Prior Emerald Life in Western Australia, was recognised for his respectful and kind communication with patients, staff and students. As a firm and informative team leader, he ensured students had valuable learning opportunities.
Upon receiving the award, he said:
鈥淚t is nice to be unexpectedly rewarded for something that I have found to be a passion and necessity in nursing, specially in the Gerontologic discipline!
I never believed in 鈥楴urses eat their young鈥 but rather in mentoring and guidance. After all, once the students or junior RN鈥檚 become more well-versed with their fields thanks to proper preceptorship, it鈥檚 a WIN-WIN-WIN for the patients and families, the nursing and medical staff, and the whole organisation in total!!!鈥
Susmita KC from North Canberra Hospital, was recognised for promoting patient independence, focusing on function, mobility and dignity. Her approach supported strong relationships and helped maintain patients' sense of self.
Upon receiving the award, she said:
鈥淭hank you for recognising our efforts.鈥

Graham Wecker from Cooma Hospital in New South Wales, was recognised for his dedication and kindness as a nurse and educator. His strong work ethic, willingness to teach and compassionate care have made a significant impact on patients, students and colleagues.
Upon receiving the award, he said:
鈥It was humbling to receive the Preceptor Award, very unexpected.鈥
Preeti Kundi from Hall and Prior Emerald Life in Western Australia, was recognised for her excellent knowledge, strong time management and person-centred care. She is a supportive and approachable mentor, and a great role model for nursing students.
Upon receiving the award, she said:
鈥What a great honour and achievement this is and it鈥檚 nice to know I have made a positive impact on our future nurses!鈥
