For Sarah Cole, Speciality Manager for Gynaecology, Gynaecology Oncology and Colorectal Surgery at Singleton Hospital in Swansea, Wales, a career in perioperative practice wasn’t always part of the plan. But today, she leads a busy theatre team with passion, purpose and a deep understanding of what it means to care for patients at their most vulnerable.
From elite sport to compassionate care
Sarah’s professional journey began in a very different arena. She completed a degree in Sports Development and Coaching Sciences and represented Wales in gymnastics and trampolining. Her early career saw her coaching internationally in Canada, as well as working with the Welsh Hockey Union and gymnastics groups in Cardiff.
However, life took a more personal turn when her mother became unwell. Sarah moved back to Swansea to support her father and brother in caring for her, during repeated hospital admissions and later providing care within their family home.
It was during this time that healthcare professionals recognised something in Sarah.
The specialist nurses expressed how much they thought Sarah was naturally suited to being a nurse.
After her mother peacefully passed away, Sarah made a life-changing decision. Supported by her family she applied to study nursing, driven by a desire to give back, and quickly realised she had found her calling.
Discovering the world of theatre
While training as a Student Nurse, Sarah initially worked on general wards within the hospital setting. But everything changed during her second year when she experienced theatre for the first time.
Her first procedure she observed was a craniotomy.
“I fell in love with theatres,” she says. “You are the patient’s voice when they are asleep. You are their advocate when they are at their most vulnerable ensuring the safety, wellbeing and dignity of the patient is always respected.”
It was a moment that defined her future. Her academic background in anatomy and physiology made the transition feel natural, and the complexity and precision of surgery captivated her. Combining her kind, caring and compassionate nature with her motivation to become a health care professional, propelled her into a career as a Theatre Nurse.
Building a career in surgery
Sarah has since built an impressive career across several major Welsh hospitals, including University Hospital of Wales, Neath Port Talbot Hospital, Princess of Wales Hospital and Morriston Hospital.
Now in her Speciality Leadership role at Singleton Hospital, she is responsible for a large and dynamic team of around 60 staff, including Healthcare Support Workers, Scrub Practitioners and Operational Department Practitioners.
A day in the life of a theatre leader
Sarah’s day begins promptly, with a 7:50am handover from the Night Team. From there, it’s a constant balancing act, in a fast-paced theatre environment which is dynamic and ever-changing. This consists of reviewing staffing levels, managing sickness, ensuring all theatres are safely staffed as well as resolving any clinical issues, checking equipment to ensure safe, efficient and effective patient flow and running of the theatre lists. The department includes six main theatres and two obstetric theatres, each requiring careful co-ordination. Her role requires her attitude to be calm under pressure, she strives to use clear communication whilst frequently handling stressful situations.
Her role also involves forward planning, including scheduling meetings that look ahead, reviewing theatre lists and reflecting on learning opportunities.
Despite ongoing challenges, such as recruitment freezes, Sarah remains focused on maintaining safe, effective services for patients.
Finding fulfilment in patient care
For Sarah, the greatest job satisfaction comes from seeing a theatre list completed and knowing patients have received the safe surgery and care they were waiting for.
“It’s like a family,” she says of her team. “Everyone supports and cares each other, as they work together, always improving.”
She places a strong emphasis on training and competency, ensuring every team member feels confident in their role and supported. Her leadership style is grounded in openness and support. She recognises each member of her staff supporting their professional and personal aspirations.
“I have an open-door policy. I’m here for everyone.”
Leadership, wellbeing and balance
Sarah believes strong leadership is built on clear communication, trust, confidentiality and positivity.
But she is also honest about the importance of self-care, particularly in such a demanding environment. As a full-time leader, wife and mother of two young children, life is busy. To unwind, she has always had an active lifestyle but has recently taken up football, playing left back for a local women’s team in Swansea. She couldn’t do this without the loving support of the family.
“It’s something just for me,” she says. “And I’m loving it.” She is also a role model for her young children.
A career where your voice matters
Working in surgery is unlike any other healthcare environment. Patients are often at their most vulnerable, and theatre teams carry a unique responsibility.
“You are their voice when they are asleep,” Sarah emphasises.
She is passionate about creating a culture where behaviours in surgery are respectful, supportive and collaborative, and where every team member feels empowered to contribute.
Why choose a career in theatre?
For those considering a career in perioperative practice, Sarah’s message is clear: you are never alone, and always fully supported.
“You are always part of a team,” she says. “And I would absolutely recommend it as a career.”
Her journey, from an elite athlete to compassionate leader in surgery, demonstrates the diverse paths that can lead into theatre nursing. More importantly, it highlights the profound impact that skilled, dedicated professionals can have on patients’ lives every single day.
Pictures show Sarah.