Gemma Stokes is heading for her graduation this summer alongside students as old as her son!

She has completed her Level 4 Certificate for Occupational Health (OH) Technicians at Leeds Beckett University which provides the theory behind the practical work in her role particularly with regards to Health Surveillance. The qualification is studied in three parts; Personal Development in Practice, Working in OH and Working with People.

Gemma joined the OH team four years ago spending three years as receptionist prior to beginning her new role as Health and Wellbeing Assistant last year. Before OH she was a ward clerk for nearly 10 years on the General Surgery ward at CRH before being redeployed due to the wards closure.

She said: " OH is really interesting and incredibly varied. Before joining them I didn't really know what to expect. But I now see how important it is keeping our staff healthy, safe and happy whilst they are at work, which in turn is good for our patients."

She admits it was strange heading to Uni. She added: " I have an 18-year-old son the same age as most of the students. It was a very big step to take it on and I was very nervous but now I have come through it and I am very pleased and very relieved." She has also completed her NVQ Level 2 in Customer Service last year and a Step Into Health qualification via Loughborough University .

Gemma is married to Operating Department Practitioner Steve Stokes.

Head of Occupational Health and Wellbeing, Christine Bouckley said "We are so very proud of her – not just for her academic success but how she has grown as a person and in in her confidence too!"