Return to Professional Practice

This is a part-time 12-week programme, which includes an induction week and weekly study days from 9.30am to 3.30pm.

Practice may be in the Kettering, Milton Keynes or Northampton areas. Placements further afield are also possible but require arrangement by the applicant.

Nurses and health visitors are required to undertake a minimum of 75 hours. Hours for midwives are determined on an individual basis.

To enable nurses, midwives and health visitors who have had a break from practice to regain the confidence, knowledge and skills to return to the workforce. This course is also provided for all nurses and midwives who are unable to meet the post registration education and practice criteria and are required to undertake a Return to Practice programme before re-registering with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. This programme has been approved by the NMC.

The course comprises both theory and practice and can be accessed at Level 5 or 6. One third of the course is taught in discipline specific groups by specialist lecturers.

Practice is undertaken in an area related to previous experience. Students have supernumerary status throughout the course and have the opportunity to undertake supervised practice in a clinical area, identified according to previous experience.

• Comprehensive support available from a designated and experienced course team
• Flexible arrangements to suit individual needs
• Strong links with NHS stakeholders

• Developments in professional practice
• Legal and ethical issues
• Personal effectiveness
• The educational role of health professionals

Reading lists will be supplied at the start of the course.

Assessment is via an evidence based practice portfolio.

Once back on the professional register, many varied opportunities are available to work as a qualified nurse, midwife or health visitor in the NHS or other healthcare arena.