Nursing students in the South West are urging people to follow them into the NHS by applying for a healthcare degree course.
In 2024, 20,920 people in England accepted a place on a nursing degree, and this year there are places on courses across the South West for those who want to follow suit, including school-leavers who are thinking about applications to higher education as the first UCAS deadline nears on 29 January.
Health chiefs say a future in nursing, midwifery or allied professions – from physiotherapy to radiography - could be life-changing, especially with a new 10-Year Plan for the NHS being developed.
This will highlight opportunities to work with new technology and to support more patients in the community as well as in hospital.
One third year student nurse said: “When I chose to study nursing, I really didn't know what to expect.
"Through my three years at university, I've gone from an 18-year-old who was really scared to start as had never been in a hospital before, to a 21-year-old that has just applied for her first job and cannot wait to start working.
“If you'd asked me even 12 months ago if I was ready to be a qualified nurse, I would have said no, but the rate at which you learn and develop in this course is more than I ever imagined.
“I have had such an amazing time studying nursing. I couldn't recommend nursing at university more; from the friends I have made at my course, to the patients I've had the privilege of looking after, each person and experience has changed me for the better.”
Another student said: “I chose to study nursing as it has enabled me to learn a range of skills and knowledge to look after a variety of conditions, whilst also giving me a wide range of experiences throughout the healthcare system and the flexibility to work in a range of different environments, such as intensive care or community.”
A newly-qualified nurse said: “I qualified last year and work in the community. My job, no matter how hard some days are is very rewarding, being a nurse is not only qualification it becomes part of you.
"Patients’ smiles when you tell them that their wound has healed or their families’ gratitude when you support them at the end of life are priceless moments because I know my job changes people’s life.
"Studying nursing was the best decision I ever made!”
Sue Doheny, Regional Chief Nurse for the South West, said: “Nursing is one of the most rewarding and diverse careers, with over 50 different jobs and specialties that students can look into after graduating.
"Midwifery also offers hands-on training with the opportunity to make a real difference to patients’ lives through a range of different placements while learning.
“For those who are still deciding on their next steps, I would urge you to consider applying for a nursing or midwifery course, and search NHS careers to find out more.
“There are also great career options for anyone who doesn't want to go to university but would still like a future in health care.
"Healthcare support worker roles don't require a degree and give the chance to gain practical on-the-job experience with patients while offering fantastic progression opportunities.”
Student nurses, midwives and allied health professionals could be eligible for the NHS Learning Support Fund and receive at least £5,000 a year. Mental health and learning disability nursing students can also access an additional £1,000 a year in funding.
The UCAS application deadline is 29 January. Entry requirements for nursing and midwifery degree courses will vary, but students are advised they will likely need at least two A Levels or equivalent.
People should contact a university directly to find out what specific qualifications are needed.
More information about the 350 different careers across the NHS can be found athttps://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/ and details of what is available in the region can be found at https://swhealthandcarecareers.co.uk/"> https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/ and details of what is available in the region can be found at https://swhealthandcarecareers.co.uk/
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