New degree for local nurses

Monday 31 March 2014

A new degree course to train much-needed nurses starts in September.

Ten places are open on a course that mixes studies and work experience here and some work in the UK. The Health department has worked with the Education department and the University of Chester to set up the scheme for Islanders to train as midwives, mental health nurses or children’s nurses.

Jersey students can already do a pre-registration nursing degree in Jersey, which started last year.

Julie Mesny, Head of Nursing and Midwifery Education, said: “It is the first time midwifery students and child field nurses have had the chance to access a place on the programme on the Island.

“This is a significant milestone and we are very excited about the prospect of being able to offer this combined model of degree. The department has been offering the mental health field student programme for the past eight years, however, this degree course is also a new model for the Island.”

The new course has also been welcomed by Andy Gibbs, Careers Jersey’s Head of Lifelong Learning and Skills.

He said: “All of these areas are very popular choices for Jersey students and the opportunity that has arisen through the partnership between Health and the University of Chester to offer a Jersey-based course is a great addition to our local degree provision.”

Anyone interested in the course should contact Julie at j.mesny@health.gov.je.

The places available are: four places as student midwives, four student mental health places and two student children’s nurse positions.