NHS England’s chief nursing officer has urged students applying for UCAS to consider joining the NHS through a healthcare degree.
Duncan Burton, joined Health Minister Karin Smyth on a visit to La Retraite Sixth Form in Lambeth to see how T Level health students are developing the core knowledge for entry into a range of health occupations.
He said: “It was great to meet T level health students, as well as colleagues from Guys and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust who are doing some amazing work with the school. This partnership is ensuring that students get the most from their academic learning combined with NHS placements.
“Students told me how much they valued their courses, and I was delighted to learn that some have already submitted their UCAS applications to study nursing or midwifery, with more planning to apply before the closing date later this week.
I believe a future in healthcare could be the life-changing career people are looking for.”
In 2024, 20,920 people in England accepted a place on a nursing degree, while 3,420 people started their journey to becoming a midwife.
Student Shakira is currently studying the T Level health course at La Retraite and outlined the skills it gives her in helping to shape her future in healthcare.
She said: “I spoke to my careers advisor about T Levels. I did some research and I found my school had the best T Level course for midwifery. The T Level course has taught me important teamwork and communication skills. When we do role-play scenarios you get to see how good you are at certain things and what you can improve on.
“I would recommend going for a T Level course because you get a lot of experience. When you’re applying for universities, that experience is what they’re looking for. I want to go straight into midwifery and would be interested in working with the NHS.”
UCAS application deadline is the 29 January 2025. Entry requirements for nursing and midwifery degree courses will vary, but students are advised they will likely need at least two A Levels or equivalent. Contact a university directly to find out what specific qualifications are needed.
If you think the NHS could be the career for you, search ‘NHS careers’ to find out more about the range of roles within the NHS and how to apply.
