Becoming a Nurse is a highly rewarding career choice if you want to help others and make a difference. It is a demanding and challenging job that requires dedication, skill, and commitment. 

In this article, we will discuss why you would want to become a Nurse and how we can help you to achieve it! 

There are many reasons why someone may choose to become a Nurse. Many people are drawn to the job because it allows them to make a positive impact in the community and develop life-saving skills to help others.  

Whatever the reason, becoming a Nurse is a noble profession that requires a high level of compassion, kindness, and competency. Nurses work closely with the community, building relationships with patients to help improve their condition and maintain a safe environment for them to recover. 

At Weston College, we can help you to achieve your goals. We offer several courses, which can act as the starting point of your career. Our courses are part of our Career Excellence Hubs, which gives you fantastic access to employers, whether that be for industry insight talks, work experience or trips. 

To begin your nursing journey, follow these steps: 

1. Meet Entry Requirements 

Typically for a Nursing course, you are required to achieve 5 GCSEs (including English, Maths, and Science) Grade 4/C and above.  

You are also required to complete 3 A Level qualifications or equivalent, whether this be a BTEC course, T Level, or Access to HE Diploma.  

At Weston College, we offer a range of course options that you can complete that will start you on the pathway to Nursing. This includes a range of Health and Social Care courses, across varying levels, which will build your skills and knowledge, ready for a career in healthcare. 

Click here to see our range of Health and Social Care courses. 

We also offer A Levels such as A Level Biology which is often a requirement to work in most areas of healthcare as it provides a strong foundation in biological sciences. Other recommended A Level subjects that Weston College provide include Chemistry, Psychology, and Sociology, as these will give you a more holistic understanding of the human body and the thoughts and behaviour of society. 

Click here to see our A Level subjects. 

Alternatively, we offer many Apprenticeships at varying levels to give everyone the opportunity to study and begin their journey into healthcare. Apprenticeships are a paid, hands-on alternative to classroom study where students get the opportunity to train alongside industry professionals. They provide essential skills required to work in healthcare and prepares people to enter the workplace.

Click here to see our range of Apprenticeships. 

2. Apply to University

To become a qualified Nurse, you need an undergraduate degree in Nursing or equivalent. This will involve a mixture of academic and practical study to provide you with the required clinical experience to become a Nurse. 

Always check the entry requirements for your chosen universities, as subjects and grades required can vary depending on the chosen institution. 

At University Centre Weston (UCW), we offer a range of healthcare degrees that you can choose from depending on your desired career path. Whether you wish to become a Nursing Associate, a Paramedic, or an Assistant Practitioner, there is a degree for you. 

Alternatively, you can complete the Level 6 Registered Nursing Degree Apprenticeship which is a paid degree qualification that provides you with a high level of hands-on experience in the workplace. 

Click here to see the available courses at UCW. 

3. Completing your Degree

During your Nursing Degree, you will typically be required to specialise in a chosen field, whether this is in adult, child, mental health, or learning disability nursing.  

You will also be required to complete a range of different placements in healthcare settings to give you practical experience. 

4. Register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC)

After graduating, you’ll apply for registration with the NMC and receive a unique Nursing PIN. This code legally authorises you to work as a nurse in the UK. Your registration information, including any conditions on your practice, will be recorded on the publicly accessible NMC register. 

5. Apply for a Nursing job

Once you are registered, you are encouraged to apply to various Nursing roles within the NHS or other healthcare organisations to increase your chances of securing a full-time position as a nurse. Within your role, you can specialise further in your career if you wish and continue your professional development. 

If you’re interested in becoming a Nurse or a Healthcare Professional but aren’t sure where to start, join us at our next Open Evening to chat to a member of the team, they will be happy to help.