E219: Sophie Davis, Emma-Praer Breger and Rachael Williams - The Modern Therapeutic Radiographer

Trigger Warning: this episode discusses cancer, cancer treatment and side effects of treatment.

Episode 219: Part of the Education and Workforce Development Series (Part 73)

Description: In this powerful episode, Naman Julka-Anderson and Jo McNamara sit down with Sophie Davis, Emma-Praer Breger and Rachael Williams.

During her time studying Biomedical Science, Sophie sparked a keen interest in cancer cell biology and treatment, this led Sophie to exploring a career as a therapeutic radiographer. Sophie completed a master's Therapeutic Radiography and Oncology. Sophie then went on to become a Band 5 Therapeutic Radiographer at The Royal Marsden Hospital. Sophie had a keen interest in students and education and became the practice educator for Therapeutic Radiography students. Sophie had a passion for improving education and completed a masters module in practice education. In 2022 Sophie started working as a lecturer at London South Bank University. Sophie is currently working on implementing different skills and simulation programmes into the degree course to enhance clinical learning.

Emma-Praer has over a decade of experience as a therapeutic radiographer, having worked in a range of hospitals across England, including a veterinary clinic where she delivered radiotherapy to dogs and cats. Following her role at UCLH Macmillan Support and Information Services, she developed a passion for teaching, which led her to become a lecturer at LSBU. She is currently completing her PGCE apprenticeship and has recently introduced a personal statement–led approach to student recruitment.

Rachael qualified as a Therapeutic Radiographer in July 2010 from the University of the West of England. Rachael is currently the course leader and senior lecturer for the Therapeutic Radiography programme at London South Bank University. Rachael is passionate about radiotherapy with a specific interest in radiotherapy planning and dosimetry, along with clinical practice. Rachael enjoys teaching students the profession both academically and clinically. To ensure students receive equal opportunities and positive experiences while completing their clinical training. Rachael has a keen interest in education and has pursued this by completing a master’s in education, with a specific focus on inclusive teaching.

CPD Reflection Points:

Reflect on how you can promote therapeutic radiography within your workplace, education and wider professional networks to raise awareness of the profe