Made the decision to return to uni in September

[Nobabe1]

I’m 47 and now filling out my UCAS form to return to do Adult Nursing. Have you any words of wisdom for me ?? So nervous I’ve the decision made ( will have to be accepted of course ). Will hopefully still be able to continue my job on a part time basis . Am very nervous about it as I’m that bit older but if anyone has any tips for me I’d great fully accept.

I volunteer on The Student Room and we see a lot of people, of all different ages, returning to university to study adult nursing. You won't be alone.

You might find the following page useful:
https://www.ucas.com/explore/search/unibuddy?query=nursing

I believe universities are still holding Open Days if you are able to attend.

Good luck! 🙂

Continuing you part time job may need re-thinking. Nursing is a pretty full on course and what about when you have placements?

It's never too late to follow your dream! Just wanted to leave a note to say Good luck!

I’m a nurse lecturer. In most of my classes I have about 4-5 older students studying. I’ve taught quite a few 40/50 year olds. My advice is that nursing degrees are intensive and trying to keep your part time job may become difficult. They are intensive because the NMC currently requires 4600 hours of theory and practice. Older students generally find it’s trying to balance this with their already busy lives that proves the most challenging.

This is what you need, @Nobabe1:

https://www.mumsnet.com/talk/mature_students

Do it - well paid with plenty of opportunities!

You won’t be the oldest, and you’ll find that you’re very welcome in placement. Having life skills and maturity is a bonus.

I'm really sorry to sound negative, but I think you should just be aware that newly qualified nurses are having huge problems finding a job in the uk atm. Hopefully things will be much better by the time you graduate, but it would be a good idea to have a backup plan in case they aren't. https://www.nursinginpractice.com/latest-news/there-are-no-jobs-newly-qualified-nurses-unable-to-find-work/

@Bluenovemberim fairly optimistic( as a nurse lecturer ) that now the nhs has stopped recruiting internationally that in 3 years time the recruitment situation will improve. I don’t think that should be used as a reason not to study nursing.

I'm glad to hear that. 🙂

I start next month, occupational therapy, a week later I turn 51. Never too old! I’m giving up my career of 30 years to do this, good luck!

Well I have submitted the application tonight. I am not scared of hard work and looking forward to the challenge to be honest. I am well aware it will take dedication and plenty perseverance to succeed. I won’t be working during placements but I hope to work the weeks that I don’t have a lot Of lectures to attend. I am so excited to have this challenge ahead of me . I just think that nursing will open many doors even if I don’t go the regular hospital shifts there will be plenty avenues to explore.

Good for you op. I’d love to do this one day!

@Nobabe1good for you. Nursing opened lots of doors for me. I’m in the last few years of my nursing career now that I started at 21 but don’t regret my choice of career at all. My advice is if you find yourself not enjoying a job at any stage don’t give up your PIN just move into a different specialty or different employer. Always keep your registration.