International Case Study

Sam Chenery-Morris 

International Nursing Exchange in Tokyo

Since the launch of the International Nursing Exchange Programme in 2019, Sam has played a pivotal role in building a meaningful partnership between the University and nursing schools in Tokyo, Japan. The programme brings together students from the UK, China, the USA, South Korea, and Japan, creating a global learning environment centred on shared healthcare challenges and cross‑cultural understanding.

In February, our nursing students travel to Tokyo, Japan, to learn about the healthcare system in Japan. And then in September, Japanese students travel to Ipswich to continue the exchange. The visits give students the chance to explore health care in different countries and gain new perspectives.

What inspired you to get involved?
At the time, I was Head of Nursing and keen to meet international nursing scholars and contribute to the programme in Japan. To see what our students were learning there and explore how we could share good practice across our UK provision and from the Japanese nursing degree.

How has your role in the programme evolved since it began?
We evaluated the programme in the first year, and other academics have evaluated it each year since to support the students and to have an opportunity to meet international nursing scholars and work on any projects that might come out of the visit.

What’s a moment that stood out?
Cycling the back streets of Tokyo with a community nurse, being invited into clients' homes and the courtesy they afforded me when I was a visitor in their home.  It was unforgettable.

How has participating in the exchange influenced the curriculum development?
My enthusiasm for international exchanges only grew stronger after visiting Japan. The impact on our students’ worldview is immense, and discussions with international colleagues enriched my understanding of how we deliver nursing programmes.

Is there a student story that you think captures the value of the programme?
Verity Jester, a former student nurse, shared how the experience transformed her confidence and practice:

“The exchange pushed me out of my comfort zone and helped me build lasting friendships. I’m still in touch with nurses I met in Japan and Korea, and have since travelled back to both.

It’s also made me a better nurse—more confident, adaptable and culturally aware. Experiencing Japan’s healthcare system taught me to slow down, listen, and understand how culture shapes patient care.”

Verity is now continuing her nursing career and is applying for a promotion.

Do you have any advice for students interested in taking part in the exchange?
Take the leap. The trip is greater than the sum of its parts.