Recognising and Rewarding Student Midwives: Celebrating the Future of the Profession 

This is the final blog in a series written by the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) on how midwifery associations can engage and support student midwives. Across the series, we have explored creating space for student voices, strengthening links with universities, and building opportunities for students to feel part of the profession. In this final blog, we focus on a vital and often overlooked element: recognising and rewarding student midwives for their contributions. 

Recognition is about more than celebration. It sends a clear message that student midwives are already valued members of the profession and that their efforts matter. When associations acknowledge student contributions, they help build pride, connection, and long-term engagement. 

The RCM’s Approach to Recognition 

At the Royal College of Midwives (RCM) in the United Kingdom, several recognition initiatives show how this can be done in meaningful and practical ways. These include the Student Midwife of the Year Award, the Midwifery Society of the Year Award, student research awards, and international opportunities such as participation in global events. 

Student Midwife of the Year 

Each year, the RCM invites nominations from universities, practice partners, and peers for its Student Midwife of the Year Award. The criteria go beyond academic or clinical achievement to include leadership, advocacy, and contribution to fellow students and the wider profession. 

Award recipients are recognised at the RCM national conference and featured across RCM newsletters, the website, and social media, helping raise their profile and celebrate their impact. 

Midwifery Society of the Year 

This award recognises student-led midwifery societies within universities that demonstrate strong community, initiative, and positive impact. Winning societies have organised peer support networks, community activities, and student-led events that reflect professional values and strengthen student connections. 

Student Research Awards 

Alongside its main awards, the RCM offers smaller grants and recognition for student research and project work. These awards support students to develop research skills, share findings, and link education with professional practice. 

Recognising research at student level reinforces the importance of evidence-based practice from the earliest stages of a midwife’s career. 

International Opportunities 

Recognition can also take the form of national and international opportunities. When students are nominated or selected to take part in high-profile events, this raises visibility not only for individuals but for student midwives and midwifery education more broadly. 

For example, RCM student midwife Megan Critchlow was selected as the UK flag-bearer at the International Confederation of Midwives Congress in 2023. Reflecting on the experience, she said: 

“Being given the opportunity to attend the Congress in Bali is a once in a lifetime opportunity… For me, it is an experience I will never forget!” 

Such opportunities highlight student midwives as future leaders and active contributors to the profession on a global stage. 

How Other Associations Can Recognise Student Contributions 

Midwifery associations around the world can implement meaningful recognition approaches, regardless of size or resources. Practical options include: 

• Creating annual or regional awards for student leadership, education, research, or community involvement. 

• Highlighting student achievements through newsletters, websites, or social media, using student-written profiles or features where possible. 

• Offering small research grants or support for student-led projects and sharing outcomes publicly. 

• Nominating students for international conferences or creating student ambassador roles. 

• Recognising student societies or groups as well as individuals, acknowledging the importance of collective effort. 

• Linking recognition to further opportunities, such as conference attendance, committee roles, webinars, or peer mentoring. 

• Maintaining engagement as students transition into newly qualified midwives, demonstrating continued association support beyond graduation. 

Investing in Midwifery’s Future 

This series has explored a range of ways that midwifery associations can engage and support student midwives, from creating dedicated membership options and educational resources to strengthening collaboration with universities and amplifying student voices. 

Engaging student midwives is not a short-term activity. It is an investment in the sustainability and strength of the profession. When associations involve students in their communications, activities, and leadership, they help develop future advocates, educators, and leaders. 

The RCM’s experience shows that when students are invited to contribute meaningfully and consistently, they respond with energy, insight, and commitment. Their perspectives strengthen association work and reinforce the value of partnership across generations. Engaging with students also creates space for learning in both directions, recognising that the profession benefits from the ideas, questions, and knowledge that new generations bring.  

By engaging, supporting, and recognising student midwives, professional associations are not only preparing individuals for practice. They are helping shape the next generation of midwives and, with it, the future of midwifery.