​Amy wins Associate of the Year title at national osteopathic awards

A RIPON Grammar School past pupil has been named Associate of the Year at the prestigious Institute of Osteopathy’s national awards ceremony.

Amy, who left RGS in 2020, graduated with a first class master’s degree from the European School of Osteopathy in Kent, where she was awarded the prize for top-performing student in 2024.

Although up against stiff competition in what was a very strong field, Amy stood out in the associate award category, which recognises newly qualified osteopaths and celebrates those making significant contributions to patient care, professional development, and community wellbeing.

She said: "What an honour, nearly 18 months after graduating I feel privileged to have received this accolade.”

Dr Alison Robinson Canham, Chief Executive of the Institute of Osteopathy, said:

"The Associate of the Year Award showcases the remarkable talent of young osteopaths entering the profession. Amy showed exceptional commitment and clear development in her clinical work. This year’s group of associates was particularly strong, with Amy’s effort, progress, and contribution standing out.”

Amy practises at Ripon Natural Health Centre and Northallerton Osteopaths, which was also Highly Commended as UK Large Practice of the Year.

Clinic director Ross Gemmell said: “We’re beyond thrilled that our very own Amy Crompton took home Associate of the Year, a well-deserved recognition of her hard work, dedication, and the incredible care she brings to our patients.

*The Institute of Osteopathy (iO) is the professional membership body representing osteopaths in the UK, committed to ensuring the highest standards of care and patient support.

Q: What was the most import lesson you learnt at RGS?

A: Learning to manage my time effectively across schoolwork, independent study and personal time greatly eased my transition to university.

Q: What is the one thing you wish you’d known?

A: It's completely okay to not know exactly what you want to do or whether university is right for you. I decided to pursue osteopathy relatively late in sixth form, and many people I trained with at the ESO were mature students who had travelled or had previous jobs before deciding to study osteopathy.

Q: Who was your favourite teacher at RGS?

A: Dr Linklater (biology) as his lessons frequently consisted of open discussions, making it feel more interactive and engaging rather than passive learning.

Q: Who inspired you when you were at school?

A: My swim coach at the time, Jo, who is also an osteopath and with whom I did work experience whilst at school. Observing the trust and respect her patients placed in her throughout their recovery was truly inspiring. She also demonstrated how it is possible to successfully run your own business while doing work you are passionate about and still maintain a balance with other interests.

Q: What advice would you give to current students who want to follow a similar career path?

A: Gain experience by observing and undertaking work placements with a range of healthcare professionals to determine whether this is the right path for you. Personally, I observed physiotherapists, chiropractors, and osteopaths before deciding which career best suited me.