Applying as a mature student

[DumbleDork]

I’m looking at applying to university to start next year to study midwifery training. I’m 33 and have a husband and 2 children.

Am I being foolish to think this is doable? Any advice? I’m really excited and scared all at once

Im 43 and have just gone to university to do a 2 yr MA in a similarish course. You're not crazy, but make sure you have support/help ready with childcare especially during placement

I’m lucky that my husband can work flexible hours or even from home. And both sets of grandparents are retired.

I’m just wondering after so long out of education how hard it will all be.

Academically I am sound (all A & B at gcse; all B at a level and a 2:1 degree in relevant subject) but I’m worried as I haven’t worked in a care type field as I’ve always worked around the children. But now they are older I want to do something for me which I’ve always wanted to do

I know a single parent that hadn't studied for a while before her access course that got a first in midwifery and she was older than you. Go for it!

Lots of people study nursing and midwifery (and medicine, come to that) in their thirties. Nursing and widwifery are particularly popular courses among women who have had children and are ready to return to work/study. The removal of bursaries has made these courses a bit less popular with this group, but there are still lots doing them. It's likely there will be people in your class who are older than you, and probably some who have more children than you.

It’s positive that people don’t think I’m crazy for even considering this.

I hope the financial help out there will cover at least what I earn on my part time wages at present. I’m off to an open day soon so hopefully can speak to someone there about it all

@DumbleDork Good Luck!!

Ds1 was 9 weeks old when I started my teaching degree
There were 9 students with babies under 12 months on my course
2 students had babies in year 1 and year 3
Many students had between 1-6 children of school age
I know 5 mums who went into nursing with school age children
I know 3 who done midwifery with between 2-5 children of school age

There will be many in the same position as you. The added bonus for you is that you are academic anyway, so will find that part easier than others.
You’ll do ace!!!

I went back this year aged 41 to do Speech and Language Therapy.

I won't lie - I'm finding a bit rough going... the uni were very keen to have me (I have a very solid academic record and work experience) but the disorganisation of the uni drives me mildly barmy, and there is a split on the course between the oldies and the 18 year olds as well... but the work and course content is fine and I'm loving that - just wish they'd consider more than 2 days notice of our timetables for those who've got to plan childcare!

I’m in my second year of uni and I’m in my late thirties with a husband, two kids and a dog.

It’s perfectly doable as long as you have support with childcare and you lower your housework standards. Placements are the hardest because the hours are long but they are also when you love it the most because it’s doing the job you want. The rest of the time I’m finding I can actually do the school run at least twice a week which I wouldn’t if I was working. It was daunting when I started but I love it now. When I’m at uni I’m doing something for myself which I haven’t done in a long time. My whole family will benefit when my wage triples so even when it’s shit I remind myself why I’m there.
It’s hard but it’s worth it. Good luck OP

How long ago did you last study?
Most universities want evidence of recent study ( ie an Access course)

You typically need some experience in a caring role as well.

Maybe attend a few open days, and get advice there
😊