'What I liked about the course was that the group was very mixed (ages, experiences) which I wasn’t expecting.'
Please tell us about your background prior to starting the Return to Practice Nursing course at City?
I had worked as a children’s nurse and nurse tutor but prior to starting the course I was working as a freelance health advisor, involved mostly in international maternal and newborn health programmes.
What were your main motivations to apply for this course?
I wanted to do the course so that I could be registered again as a children’s nurse for two reasons: I wanted to get back to frontline paediatrics and I am planning to train as a health visitor and need to be back on the register to do this.
Why did you choose to study at City, University of London?
The location near to my home and the clinical placement was also convenient. But the response was very positive and helpful when I contacted the tutor for more information (Sarah Storer). Overall I liked what I found out about City when I was planning to do the course.
How has studying the Return to Practice Nursing course helped you to develop personally and professionally?
What I liked about the course was that the group was very mixed (ages, experiences) which I wasn’t expecting. The group size was also just about right (approximately 15 of us). I was able to reconnect professionally with nursing and met some very nice people along the way.
How did you find the transition to studying alongside working, did you benefit from any support at City?
The support was available if needed. Excellent library services and the tutors, particularly Ben and Sarah, were always helpful and responsive.
What are your career plans after completing the course, and how has City helped you prepare for the next stage in your career journey?
My career plans are to return to paediatric nursing practice in some capacity and train to be a health visitor. I have already spoken to the Director of the course that trains health visitors at City – Val Thurtle – and she was extremely helpful.
What advice would you give to people thinking about studying the Return to Practice Nursing course at City?
I would say to be focussed and know what you want to achieve from the course in the longer term and enjoy it!
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