Nursing career help

[Loubielou94]

Hi all! I'm looking for some advice..
I currently work in a childcare setting as a nursery practitioner and SENCO and I have a level 3 diploma. I have worked in childcare for the last 11 years but I am starting to feel tired and feeling a career change.
My mum sadly passed away after a short battle with cancer earlier this year and after seeing the care she received in the hospice, I have been inspired!
I would love to work in a hospice but I have no idea where to begin in terms of qualifications/training. I have enquired to my local hospice but have not heard back yet.
I have considered the open University to do nursing but I am concerned about the fees etc. But have also considered beginning work in a care setting to gain experience and gain some relevant qualifications and go from there but any advice would be welcome in how to go down the nurse/care route. Thanks 😊

Hello

I was one of the last recipients of the nurse bursary (started training in late 20s/ early 30s) I count myself very lucky in that. I'll be honest, I have a good job and I am carving out a decent career where I intend to start my own therapy based business alongside becoming an independent prescriber.

With all that being said I would not recommend it. Things are set to become worse than ever. I'd have left years ago but I feel like I've got a 2nd wind and am excited about what I am creating- unfortunately I do think I'm in the minority with that.

I guess it depends what your circumstances are and what your ambitions in the field are also.

I would definitely recommend working as a healthcare assistant or similar.
What about teaching or social work?
What aspect of nursing are you attracted too?

I am very very sorry to hear about your mum x

Hi,

I haven’t yet qualified but hope I can be of a little help :-)!

Have you thought about doing the apprenticeship route atall? I’m very lucky to be doing my nursing degree this way through my job, it enables me to learn and still have an income, I think if you work as a HCA most places give the opportunity if you’d like to progress, which is great.

I think it’s a fantastic career, and if you feel it’s really for you then work doesn’t really feel like work :-)!

However, can be very tough juggling placements and assignments! I think the course the open university does is only accessible if you already work for a trust as all nursing degrees have to be 50% placement and 50% coursework, but certainly look into it :-)!

Good luck op, you sound like you could be a fantastic nurse, and I’m so sorry to hear about your mum