Are you a Full-time student and a mum?

[Sinead543]

So I was supposed to start university (nursing) this year but I unexpectedly fell pregnant which has obviously changed a lot of plans. The new plan is to start university next September(2021), baby will be around 6 months.

Do you think I’m mad? Will it be doable? Are there any mummy’s on here that are currently (or previously) studying Full time?

It is totally doable! You need to be organised though, working shifts on placement can be a nightmare for childcare so make sure you have something reliable in place.

And also don’t expect your tutors or placement staff to bend over backwards “just because you have a baby”. Don’t get me wrong I’m sure they will be supportive but it’s quite off putting when the first thing a new student says is “oh I can’t do that, I have children”. Most nurses have families and will understand the pressures you’re facing but make sure you don’t act entitled to things because of your baby.

Take all the support you can from uni, study groups etc and enjoy it! It’s hard work but so worth it.

@FlorenceNightshade
I’m thinking would it be easier to get a job as a HCA in a hospital and work my way up that way? I’m wondering if the work load would be easier.
I’ve worked as a HCA for nearly 3 years but in a nursing home.

I returned to my second year of training to be a teacher with an 8mo. It was hard but manageable with lots of support at home.

If you’ve got your place already you might regret not taking it up. I’m my trust (in Scotland) there is fierce competition between the staff who want to train on the job and the course only has space for about 40 students and loads of hcas apply and don’t even get interviews.

It will be hard going whichever way you do it but if you go straight to uni you’ll be qualified and earning (a shit wage but a less shit wage) sooner. You just have to be able to prioritise your course for a few short years and then you’ll be laughing!

I've just started an Occupational Therapy degree. I have a nearly 2yo and am pregnant due in February. I don't plan on stopping my studies but do hope that the online delivery continues. My toddler is in nursery and I am hoping for another easy baby.

I started uni when DS was six weeks old and I was a single mum!!! It’s totally do able, albeit exhausting and a juggle. If you’re motivated enough and have a good support network, then go for it.

It’s hard work, especially nursing where you’ll have 12 hour shift while training but if you have someone to support you with childcare during studies and placement then it’s ultimately doable. You have to remember placement might include nightshift so you’ll need appropriate childcare overnight too.

This has made me feel a lot better, I know it’s going to be hard but it’ll be worth it in the end.