Dual success in progression toward nursing for UHI Orkney students
This year has brought success to many students at UHI Orkney who are pursuing careers in nursing. Two students, in particular, are celebrating the completion of their courses and are ready to take the next steps in their healthcare careers. Although they have followed different paths, both have arrived exactly where they want to be.
This year Kate Edwards successfully completed the NQ Access to Nursing course and has now secured a position as a healthcare support worker in the maternity unit of the Balfour Hospital. This brings her a step closer to her aim of becoming a qualified nurse. The NQ has provided her with entry requirements to enter a Nursing BSc and given her high employability in the local healthcare sector.
Kate benefited from OIC bursary support during her course. This enabled her to study and complete a series of placements at NHSO to gain experience. In her new role, Kate will be working with the maternity unit team and gaining hands-on clinical experience with opportunities to take up further qualifications in nursing and midwifery.
She says, “It’s exciting times, and I’m really proud to be able to contribute to the NHS in Orkney. I applied because it’s a full-time, in-person course with opportunities to join nursing and other roles in the NHS. The most interesting parts for me were how to prevent and fight infections, about the development of children and the role of social care and healthy eating. I am looking forward to starting my career.”
For Caitlin Watt the offer of a place on a Nursing BSc came after completing her HNC Social Services and working in the health and social care sector in Orkney. The high value placed on experience, communication skills and care-centred practice embedded in the HNC has made her an attractive candidate for progressing onto the degree course. Caitlin has been a member of the Macmillan Ward team during the final months of her studies, gaining valuable hands-on clinical experience and previously working as a Social Care Assistant at Smiddybrae House.
Interim Curriculum Leader for Health and Care Gabrielle Barnby said, “Both students have worked incredibly hard, balancing assignments with placements and work. They deserve every success and UHI Orkney is proud to have played a part in their journey.”