London County Council medal for 'Home Nursing'

A London County Council cross-shaped Medal for 'Home Nursing', engraved on reverse with the name 'Nellie Kite' and dated (1-4-14). Cross attached with a royal blue silk ribbon and a brass bar pin.

Nellie Kite was awarded this medal for passing exams in Home Nursing in April 1914.

Her medal was awarded after 12 evening classes and then three progressively harder courses over at least three years. The medal entitled Nellie to become a teaching assistant.

The exams consisted of a theoretical written exam and a practical exam and students needed clear views on infection and infectious diseases. The courses were taught by qualified nurses and supported by assistants. All courses aside from ‘Health’ were taught in a single-sex environment, reflecting the same systems used at primary and secondary school levels.

Not much is known about Nellie’s life, but she was also awarded a first aid medal in December 1914.