The School of Allied Health Professions and Nursing recently played host to a group of students and a staff member from Fukuoka Nursing College in Japan, providing a valuable opportunity for international collaboration, cultural exchange and learning.
During their time at the University of Liverpool, four nursing students - Karin Shiraishi, Kokona Hyakutake, Momoka Sakai, and Sara Iwagawa - were joined by staff member Yuki Ishida for a week-long visit to the city.
The group actively participated in clinical simulation and academic sessions with our first-year Nursing students which gave them an insight into how nursing education is delivered in the UK. They also visited the Florence Nightingale Archive and gave a presentation about nursing in Japan, highlighting nationally important nurse innovators.
“In Japan, classes tend to be more lecture-based,” the group noted.
“Here, students are encouraged to share their opinions and actively engage in simulations. It was impressive to see how instructors responded positively to students’ ideas, helping build mutual respect and trust.”
Reflecting on how the experience might shape their future practice, the students highlighted what they had learned, not only about clinical practice but also about communication, leadership, and confidence-building.
They said: "We were inspired by the way praise and encouragement are used in teaching here, it’s something we hope to apply when we eventually mentor or teach others.”
Outside of the classroom, the group explored the cultural highlights of Liverpool. From the city's two cathedrals to the Beatles Museum, they enjoyed discovering the city’s rich history and hospitality.
“Everyone at the university was so kind, and the city is absolutely beautiful,” one student said.
In their downtime, the group were keen to try some British culinary delights - they told us their highlights included traditional fish and chips (described as “delicious”) - a lemon drizzle cake, and the much-anticipated afternoon tea with scones and clotted cream.
SAHPN was proud to host this group from Fukuoka Nursing College and hopes this visit marks the beginning of a long-term relationship between our institutions.
We thank Karin, Kokona, Momoka, Sara, and Yuki for visiting and sharing their experiences with us - our School staff are now looking forward to potentially returning the favour and visiting the group in Japan in the future.