Recruitment continues for mental health nursing degree course

Places are available on a local Bachelor of Nursing degree course, beginning in September 2016, that will lead to a career in mental health nursing.

The three-year course is delivered by the Isle of Man Government’s Learning, Education and Development division in partnership with the University of Chester.

Based at Keyll Darree Education Centre, students divide their time between lectures and practice.

The course leads to registration as a nurse and is completed entirely on-Island.

Places leading to qualifications in adult nursing and mental health nursing were advertised in January.

Mark Haith, a Programme Leader, said that while there had been a strong field for adult nursing, fewer candidates had sought to specialise in mental health nursing.

‘We are interviewing for mental health nursing students at present and are keen to hear from anyone who believes they have the interest and aptitude to take the first steps towards this challenging but rewarding career through degree study,’ he said.

‘Recent graduates in mental health nursing have achieved exceptionally high grades, demonstrating the quality of the course.

‘The Department of Health and Social Care has a new mental health strategy in place and a new inpatient unit is being created, so the service is looking forward.

‘People from all walks of life and backgrounds are encouraged to apply, whether finishing A-levels, changing career or returning to work after a break. Students are eligible for a ?5,000 a year bursary and can undertake postgraduate study leading to a Masters degree after their initial degree.’

Mr Haith continued: ‘It is the second year we have taken in 20 students in total, so from September 2016 we will have 55 local people working towards degrees in nursing.’

Local degree study is one of many initiatives to boost the number of practicing nurses on the Island and reduce dependence on bank and agency staff.

Applicants for the mental health places need 280 UCAS points – or equivalents as outlined on www.chester.ac.uk/undergraduate/nursing.  They must possess GCSE grade C or above in maths and English.

For more information and to apply, visit www.gov.im/nursetraining or contact mark.haith@gov.im.  

Applications close on Monday 2nd May.