Time to reflect

In an attempt to introduce creative ways of reflecting, art projects were included in group personal tutor sessions for student midwives. One was a reflective timeline drawn annually, documenting the student's own journey through a year. The intention was that this informal and interactive activity may help the students to relax and enjoy the reflective process, and also have some fun. Due to the high pressured risk management orientated nature of contemporary midwifery this was to be a welcome contrast to many of the traditional taught classes within the course. The student's evaluation of the activity exceeded all expectations in terms of demonstrating their learning from the experience and that sharing had helped them bond as a group thus supporting and understanding each other better. This exercise fostered a culture of self awareness, relationship building, caring and support for colleagues, all crucial aspects of woman centred midwifery practice.