A nursing student from the University of Cumbria would win bronze in a national Taekwondo championship last month. 

Katy Watkinson is in the final year of her Mental Health Nursing Programme at the University and has been juggling studying and training, which ensured that she was ready to give her best at October's national championships in Worcester. 

Alongside her father Russell and brother Henry, she would win a bronze medal in the synchronised family category of the Poomsae competition.

Katy said: "Taekwondo has been a huge part of my life for the past 14 years. It has always served as a way for me to de-stress, whilst also improving both my physical and mental wellbeing and providing a wider social circle for me to engage in.

"I started coaching Taekwondo as a volunteer to aid the completion of my Duke of Edinburgh Award, but I have continued ever since."

As well as Taekwondo, Katy has also been making a positive difference over the last few years in other ways. She worked in nursing homes before and throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

One of the establishments where she has completed placements during her degree has been so impressed with her professionalism that Katy has been offered a full-time post upon completion of her university studies. 

Katy added: "Since starting my nursing degree, it has become increasingly evident to me that Taekwondo has such a positive impact on an individual’s mental health. It helps to build confidence, self-esteem and often provides a safe space for students to come and relieve some tension whilst also having fun with their friends."

"I truly hope I can continue to combine the knowledge and passion I have gained from my nursing studies with the love I have for my sport, and continue to support and instil this passion not only into my Taekwondo students, but also into the individuals I will look after throughout the duration of my nursing career.” 

Nursing Programme Leader Louise Corless said: "Katy is a highly committed, compassionate and competent student nurse who is a credit to the programme and to the profession."