Facilitators’ self-reflection on implementing and evaluating a preceptorship training programme for experienced registered nurses: A pilot using Gibbs’ reflective cycle

Background. Clinical education training units were re-established in South African public healthcare facilities in 2019; however, experienced registered nurses and clinical co-ordinators have not received formal preceptorship training to effectively fulfil these roles. Objectives. To explore the challenges, successes and lessons learned by programme facilitators during the implementation and evaluation of a pilot preceptorship training programme in the North West Province of South Africa. Methods. A preceptorship training programme was implemented from November 2022 to May 2023 in a district hospital. Of the 15 purposively selected registered nurses, 11 completed their training portfolios. Presenters applied Gibbs’ reflective cycle to guide structured reflection across six stages: description, feelings, evaluation, analysis, conclusion and action plan. Results. The description phase outlined the programme context and implementation process. Reflection on feelings and evaluation highlighted that the absence of an organisational culture for preceptorship and limited formal recognition of preceptors hindered programme uptake and sustainability. Strengths included the effective use of diverse clinical teaching strategies to support preceptees’ learning. These strengths were further explored and linked to literature during the analysis phase. Reflection concluded that hospital managers play a pivotal role in promoting a culture of continuous learning, addressing workload challenges and supporting change management. The action plan recommended continuous professional development, peer-support platforms and access to online teaching to strengthen future implementation. Conclusion. Guided reflection using Gibbs’ model enabled a comprehensive evaluation of the pilot preceptorship training programme. The findings provide practical insights to refine preceptorship training and better support experienced nurses in clinical education roles.