What will the training entail?

You will train to be a health visitor/school nurse/district nurse by a combination of learning at University and working within an NHS SCN team. This way you will be applying theory to practice and developing the full skill set that you need in order to work independently as a fully qualified, NMC registered specialist. At university, you will attend lectures and seminars which will equip you with the core knowledge in areas such as leadership in public health nursing, safeguarding, assessment and intervention, and evidence based practice. Within the NHS placement you will be supported by a mentor or a specialist practice teacher to develop the skills and competencies required to work as a health visitor. You will work within the health visiting team and take part in all activities under supervision. You will be working within the community, doing home visits, attending clinics and working within the team's offices.

What course options are available?

You will have the opportunity to study either full-time for one year or part-time over two years, depending on your preference and what your chosen institution is offering.

What is the difference between full-time and part-time courses?

Full-time courses will generally entail two days at university, two days in a trust and one day study leave. Part-time courses consist of one day at university, one1 day at a trust and half a day study leave. You should expect 9am-5pm working days. Please check your preferred institution website for full details on the courses available.

Can I study at a postgraduate level?

Yes, a number of the universities offer the course at a postgraduate level. In order to undertake a postgraduate diploma you should normally have a good first degree. Universities may have different entry requirements so it is best to check with the university you are applying to. Both the BsC and Postgraduate diploma will lead to registration as a health visitor.

How much will I get paid while training?

Salary support of a lower band 5 is being made available to employers from NHS London to support students in training. The actual amount received by students is to be determined by local employers and may vary according to location of training posts. This will be agreed with candidates on successful appointment.

I left health visiting many years ago and I'd like to return. Is this course the best route for me?

If you left health visiting to pursue an alternative career and have been away from health visiting for more than five years you may undertake a return to practice course to update your skills and re-register with the NMC. The return to practice course is also suitable for those that have maintained registration, but have still been away from the profession for a number of years. NHS London are providing fully-funded return to practice courses that start in October 2011. These courses are being provided by Bucks New university and City university.

What qualification will I achieve?

You will gain either an undergraduate or postgraduate degree/diploma. You will also gain specialist community public health nursing registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC). This will allow you to enter your profession at a band 6 level.

When does the course start?

The 2012 cohort will start in September 2012. You will start the practical and academic aspect of your study simultaneously.

Why do I have to apply so early for courses starting in September?

Everyone who enrols onto the health visiting/school nursing/district nursing course will be required to have clearance from the Criminal Records Bureau (CRB). This entails filling out a form that is processed by the CRB office. This can take some time and therefore recruitment needs to be completed before July.