From professional sailor to celebrated midwife

Pip Raud’s personal story inspired her into midwifery – and she’s now been shortlisted for a national award

30 April 2025

Pip Raud is used to high energy, stressful situations – exemplified by sailing the Atlantic in a force 12 storm, aged just 18.

Part of a seafaring family, she pursued a degree combining water sports and business while balancing her sailing passion. But the course of her life had to change due to health issues – and while it’s been far from plain sailing, she took control and is now on track delivering the outstanding care she herself benefited from.

Her dedication has now seen her nominated for Student Midwife of the Year in the national Student Nursing Times Awards.

I was lucky enough to have some incredible opportunities through my sailing, including crossing the Atlantic as part of a crew of only three.

But I had really severe endometriosis, and was told in my teens that I’d be unlikely to have children.

Thankfully my now husband and I did have our son and daughter in my early twenties, and I count myself so lucky, but I required additional care during pregnancy and had a lot of visits to hospital.

It was during that time, when I received incredible care from midwives and other professionals, that something in my core ignited, and I couldn’t really quieten it down.

A change in the tide

With two young children, and her health in mind, Pip decided to move away from the physical demands of sailing to a career in photography.

Still naturally drawn to the water, she enjoyed photographing underwater, and also branched out into weddings and corporate brands, working weekends while raising her family.

“Photography was great, but I always remembered the incredible care I’d received when pregnant, and maintained this passion for midwifery. I found myself looking through the textbooks I’d accumulated for fun, but I was at a stage of life where I felt it was a nice idea rather than a reality.”

Pip Raud, sailor turned midwifery student, with her children

Then, in 2019, Pip’s health issues returned, and she had to have a hysterectomy. While naturally concerned, she again was inspired by the care of the health professionals she met. A few short months later, the Covid pandemic hit – and the combination of events acted as a catalyst to re-evaluate her career path.

The whole team was amazing, but there was one particular consultant who looked after me and gave me incredible care. I was feeling low but reflecting on his support, I thought ‘I want to be this for other people’, and knew healthcare was my calling.

As was the case for everyone in the photography industry at the time, all of our bookings were cancelled. So I spoke to my family, as both kids has started secondary school, and I talked about training as a midwife. They were really supportive.

I was nearly 40, I’d been in a steady job for 11 years and naturally was worried about the application process, and then the course. What if I’m the oldest there by miles? What if I’ve forgotten how to study? What if I don’t fit in?

But I ultimately realised that time is going to pass anyway – so I thought, what do I want to do with it? Then I took the leap and here I am.

The next chapter

Living in Exeter, Pip decided to first look at studying midwifery at the ��Ʒ��Բ�.

What really appealed was the blended learning option – where some of the theoretical teaching is delivered online to make learning more accessible – and the fact that having an existing degree made me eligible to achieve a masters in three years, rather than four.

Blended learning means that, while I do all of the same clinical and placement requirements, I can do some of the textbook work and lectures online, meaning I don’t have to travel down all the time.

It’s tempting to anyway as I love the sea, and swim when I can! But it’s great to balance family time too. I’ve surprised myself with my grades, and I’ve really enjoyed the research and applying evidence-based care.

In addition, her placements, Pip says, have been ‘inspirational’ and cemented her decision to pursue the career.

The second I stepped into my first placement, I knew I’d done the right thing.

Every single birth I witness or support, I have a feeling of complete awe, and the support I’ve received from the midwives I’ve worked with has been inspirational.

There was one day when I was getting ready to finish but it was still busy. I heard the call bells going left right and centre on the ward and thought I might be able to help.

Being ‘all hands to the pump’ at crisis point was something I’d done a lot in my sailing career, and to use those skills to help people at their most vulnerable is something I was really proud to do.

Another time, I was at a home birth and I was able to provide support to the mother through my own lived experience, and we built up a great rapport. I know what it’s like to feel vulnerable, and I really care about supporting people through that time.

National award

Nearing the end of her three-year masters, Pip received a surprise email saying she had been shortlisted for the Student Nursing Times Awards.

Recognising the best in nursing and midwifery education, the nomination came in the Student Midwife of the Year category – the outcome will be announced in May.

Pip said:

“I’m so pleased just to have been nominated, so being shortlisted is amazing. I’m pursuing a career I love that gives me a huge sense of contentment and fulfilment – and no one can ask for more than that.”

Pip Raud

Pip has consistently demonstrated excellence in midwifery practice, showing both exceptional clinical skills and a compassionate approach to patient care.

She has a deep understanding of the principles of midwifery and applies her knowledge with precision, always prioritising the well-being of the mother and baby.

Her calm demeanour, quick thinking, and strong communication skills make her a trusted presence in any clinical setting. Beyond technical proficiency, Pip embodies the core values of empathy and respect, building strong relationships with patients and colleagues alike.

She is truly an outstanding student, destined to make a significant impact in midwifery.

Dr Sarah Fitzpatrick
Midwifery lecturer, who nominated Pip for Student Midwife of the Year