Champion of the Week
Michelle Brown, Subject Lead for adult nursing, University of Derby
My name is Michelle Brown, and I work for the University of Derby as the subject lead for adult nursing, based at St Helena, our Chesterfield campus.
With a growing presence in Chesterfield, the University is proud to offer an extensive range of programmes that generate potential for all students. Our Nursing and Midwifery subject area at the University of Derby is in the Top 15 for student satisfaction in the Complete University Guide 2025.
The University has a strong ambition to open doors for its community and continues to play a vital role in developing talent and shaping a confident, inclusive future for the town and wider region.
What is your organisation looking forward to?
We are continuing to grow our impact in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire by expanding innovative learning opportunities.
The University of Derby is proud to have an established reputation for educating nurses, and St Helena has fantastic facilities such as a state-of-the-art Clinical Skills Suite, an NHS standard six-bed mock ward, and an Immersive Interaction Simulation Suite. We host regular open events where you can find out more about our brilliant teaching staff, subjects and witness first-hand our fantastic facilities.
Who has provided advice or mentoring and how has it helped your organisation?
We work closely with colleagues across the NHS, the Integrated Care System, local authorities, and regulators. Their advice helps us shape programmes that reflect real-world practice.
How are you supporting young people?
As the first in my family to go to university, I am passionate about supporting young people and creating accessible routes into health and social care programmes through nursing degree apprenticeships, placements, and work experience. Young people bring enthusiasm, fresh ideas, and a strong connection to their communities.
How are you, your organisation or your team supporting our communities and improving our quality of life?
Our students and staff make a difference through hospital, community, and outreach work. Knowing that the nurses we educate are supporting local people and improving health outcomes is incredibly rewarding and central to why we do what we do.
How would you describe Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, using only three words?
Welcoming, proud, caring.
How do Chesterfield and North Derbyshire showcase their culture and heritage?
There is a real pride in the area’s heritage, from the Crooked Spire to local museums, markets, and community events. What I love is how this history is celebrated while still looking forward.
Where in Chesterfield or North Derbyshire holds a special connection for you and your colleagues, family, or friends?
The Peak District is a place many of us return to again and again. It is where we go to walk, talk, reflect, and recharge. Those shared experiences, whether with colleagues, friends or family, create lasting memories and support wellbeing.
What does being a Chesterfield Champion mean to your organisation and how do you actively promote our town?
Being a Chesterfield Champion means showing pride in where we are based and taking responsibility for contributing to the town’s future. We do this by developing local talent, strengthening the healthcare workforce, and encouraging our students and staff to act as ambassadors for Chesterfield in their everyday work.
What is your vision for Chesterfield and North Derbyshire in 2030? What do you think the town needs to achieve this?
By 2030, I would love to see more people building fulfilling careers without having to leave the area. To achieve this, we need continued investment in skills, strong partnerships, and a shared commitment to supporting our communities and future generations – all of which we are actively striving for at the University of Derby.
The University of Derby is one of over 230 Chesterfield organisations that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase Chesterfield and North Derbyshire as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.
Find out more about our Champions network.
