Bid to train more nurses

A new nursing qualification is being launched in Sheffield

Sheffield College is starting the course in September having designed the qualification with local health bosses from the Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust.

The one-year course enables students without traditional qualifications such as A-levels to go to university.

The Access to Nursing (Health Professions) Higher Education Diploma is for students who want to go on to nursing degree courses and other health professions.

Professor Hilary Chapman, Chief Nurse at Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said: “We are delighted to have played a leading role in developing this course in partnership with The Sheffield College.

“Our trust has a successful track record in training, nurturing and developing a strong and effective nurse workforce for the future.

“This is a vital step forward in ensuring that the nursing workforce of the future has the appropriate level of skills, knowledge and ability to meet the rising demand for healthcare services.”

Lesley Rowlands, head of learning for health, education and care at the college, said: “Access courses provide a great opportunity for adults to return to the classroom and fulfil their career ambitions.”