Fast-track to nursing

The University of East Anglia (UEA) is inviting people interested in a career in adult nursing to take part in a special fast-track application process this week.

After applying for a place on either the diploma or the degree course by email, shortlisted candidates will be invited to UEA’s School of Nursing and Midwifery for an Open/Interview Day. This will take place on either Monday February 9 or Saturday February 14. Successful applicants will be notified on the day and then begin their course on Monday February 16.

Adult nurses work in acute hospitals, community hospitals, health centres and other primary care locations. They have the opportunity to work with patients who have acute and long-term illness and ultimately to specialise in the field which most interests them.

Places are still available on both the diploma and degree courses. No tuition fees are payable for either course and generous bursaries are provided. For those taking the diploma route, a non-means tested bursary of £6,531 per annum is paid. Those taking the degree route receive a means-tested bursary, supplemented by a £4,000 non-means tested Learning Award. Childcare support is also available.

Classroom-based teaching will take place in Norwich at UEA and students will also undertake clinical practice placements in the region.

Following qualification, good employment opportunities exist within local NHS Trusts and the independent sector. The current Band 5 starting salary is £20,225-£26,123.

“There are still places available for the February intake and we would definitely welcome applications from people wishing to change career,” said Jill Robinson, head of UEA’s School of Nursing and Midwifery.

“Training to be a nurse is certainly demanding but it is also an opportunity to do something very rewarding and many of our former students are now making an important contribution to improving the lives of local people through the high standard of care they provide.”

To find out more or download an application form, please visit www.uea.ac.uk/nam or email nam.admissions@uea.ac.uk For further information about bursaries, please visit www.nhspa.gov.uk/sgu