Mersey and West Lancashire Teaching Hospitals’ Acting Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Governance Lynne Barnes has congratulated local students receiving their A Level, T Level or BTEC results today and called on anyone not sure of their career path to consider joining the NHS through the final remaining nursing and midwifery degree places available.
So far this year, 33,560 people in England have applied for a nursing degree, and 7,290 have applied to become a midwife.
Now exam results have been announced, clearing places are available for nursing and midwifery and the NHS is reminding students who may be reconsidering their choices that a future in healthcare could be the life-changing career they're looking for.
Lynne said: “I am really proud to be a nurse and love what I do.
“I started as a Healthcare Assistant and thanks to the support of so many people I have been able to progress my career into nursing and then management.
“I have had a wonderful, rewarding and diverse career where I have made friends for life, and I would encourage students to really consider their options.
“With more than 50 different jobs and specialties in nursing and midwifery I am sure there will be a role to suit you which will give you the chance to make a real difference to patients’ lives.’’
Duncan Burton, the new chief nursing officer for England, has also backed the call saying: “Thousands of students are already on track to start nursing and midwifery degrees this September, but for any students still deciding on their next steps or rethinking their original choices, I would urge you to consider applying for a healthcare course through clearing – it’s not too late.
“Joining the NHS as a nurse was the best decision I ever made so if you think nursing could be for you, you can search ‘NHS nursing careers’ to find out more about the roles available and how to apply.”
For those who are still deciding on their next steps or perhaps rethinking their original choices, you can apply for a nursing or midwifery course through UCAS clearing which is open October 21st.
If you choose to attend university to study nursing or midwifery you could also be eligible for the NHS Learning Support Fund, which will guarantee a grant of £5,000 a year, as well as specialist payments for studying mental health or learning disability nursing.
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.
