Hub recognised by ‘THE’ Awards for innovation

The University of East London’s pioneering Hospital and Primary Care Training Hub has been shortlisted by the prestigious Times Higher Education 2023 awards for Technological or Digital Innovation of the Year. 

The recognition highlights the University’s commitment to innovating educational technologies and interprofessional practice and tackling health inequalities. 

The Hospital and Primary Care Training Hub is a European first in end-to-end simulated health and social care practice which offers the latest technology, including VR (virtual reality) and responsive mannequins. The technology creates realistic scenarios that boost students’ experience and confidence. 

UEL has also been shortlisted for the University of the Year award, the highest honour given by the Times Higher Education Awards. 

Vice-Chancellor and President Professor Amanda Broderick said,

To be shortlisted for Technological or Digital Innovation of the Year is a remarkable achievement, reflecting the innovative spirit defining the University of East London, especially as we celebrate our 125th anniversary.  

“We are proud of the Hospital and Primary Care Training Hub's transformative impact on healthcare education and addressing health inequalities in our communities. We believe in education's power to drive change. Amidst COVID-19 challenges, we redefined healthcare education, equipping students with skills to excel and be change-makers.  

“I am delighted that the University has also been shortlisted for the University of the Year award, acknowledging our contributions to educational innovation and societal transformation. These nominations are a testament to our dedicated faculty, staff, and students, fostering academic excellence, creativity, and social responsibility.” 

Rob Waterson, Dean of the School of Health, Sport and Bioscience said, “The Hospital and Primary Care Training Hub represents our dedication to healthcare education excellence. At the University of East London, we believe in innovative healthcare education. Our aim with this initiative is to prepare students for future healthcare challenges and revolutionise education delivery. By leveraging technology and promoting interprofessional practice, we've created an environment for students to develop skills, knowledge, and confidence.  

“This recognition from the Times Higher Education Awards honours our faculty, staff, and students who embraced this transformative journey. We're proud of the Hub's impact on healthcare education and on our local communities.” 

Through collaborations with the National Health Service (NHS) and local communities, the Hub addresses the pressing issue of health inequalities in nearby communities, which are some of the most socially challenged in the country. 

Covid-19 was a catalyst for the Hub. The pandemic posed significant challenges to healthcare education, leading to a loss of vital placement opportunities for aspiring nurses, nursing associates, physiotherapists, and podiatrists. In response, UEL transformed an existing clinical education building into the Hospital and Primary Care Training Hub, placing technology and innovation at the core of its offerings.