To say that if you're a nurse and are having children, NEVER let your registration lapse.

[lougle]

I took a career break while my 3 children were very young. I so regret it. The process of getting my registration back is so long.

We've just completed our return to practice course (20 weeks at uni + 150 hours of supervised placement + 2500 word essay). Now we have to wait while they validate our results and send notification to the NMC, who will then send a pack out for registration.

You only need to do 20 short (7.5hr) shifts per year to avoid all that.

[LittleprincessinGOLDrocks]

I did think that might be the case. I'm a long way off even seriously considering it to be honest, but I am glad I know now. I never thought of being a HCA at a doctor's surgery, it does sound like a good option with a little less stress than RTP and the health visitor course. I just always thought I would make ward sister on that ward and never leave, but my health had other ideas, feel like those 9 years were a waste in a lot of ways. Thanks for the replies.

[StephenKatz]

I'm going to Northumbria lougle.

I think working full time might be difficult, we have to do a portfolio, assignment, 9 days (I think) at Uni, lots of extra study hours, and, for me anyway, 150 hours in practice.

[lougle]

A couple of people worked FT on my course but nobody found it easy.

[Smokedsalmonbagel]

Interesting as I've been considering doing a RTP course. I've been out of nursing for 5 years. My youngest starts school in September and I am currently in a low paid job that I dislike.
I'm so not sure about going back. Like a lot of you I have concerns about the course and about finding a suitable job at the end.

[kansasmum]

I've been out of nursing for 13 years and am considering doing RTP ?ourse. Currently working on nurse bank as HCA and bit terrified to be honest about doing course. Missed the deadline for next cohort but really not sure - nursing seems to have changed so much. I'm not a degree nurse ( qualified in 1990!) so worry I would struggle with the expectations.
Do you get much support from ward staff?