Why I chose to study Children and Young People’s Nursing
Date 14 January 2026
14.01.2026The blog reflects Valerie’s personal journey into nursing, focusing on the importance of compassion, resilience, and creating positive change in the lives of young people and families.
Why I study Children and Young People’s Nursing at UON
The decision to pursue a profession in nursing is quite personal, and for me, the path towards nursing for children and young people felt both natural and purposeful. Working with children has always captivated me, even as a child. I am inspired by their tenacity, curiosity, and distinct perspective on the world.
I desired a profession that would allow me to truly impact the lives of children and their families, particularly when they most needed care and support.
What made me excited about the course
What excited me about this course was that no two days would feel the same. Every child brings a different story and that comes with an opportunity to learn, connect and help them. Although I knew the work would be challenging, the reward was greater and that is what makes it so meaningful to me. It is more about being present to offer comfort and making sure that both a child and their loved one feel heard and respected as they go through a difficult time.
Career Opportunities
Another reason I was drawn to this career is the wide range of opportunities it offers for the future. Children and young people’s nurses are needed in so many places, from hospitals and clinics, to schools and community teams.
Knowing that there are different paths I could take, whether that’s specialising in a certain area, moving into education, or even taking on leadership roles, gives me a sense of security.
It feels good to know that while I’m following a passion, I’ll also have the chance to grow and build a stable, rewarding career.
Overall . . .
The reason I decided on Children and Young People’s Nursing is that it combines my love for helping people and my ambition to contribute to better futures. By helping children and their families, I hope to contribute to a healthcare experience that is compassionate, holistic, and person-centred, making a lasting difference.
Find out more about the benefits of the Children and Young People’s Nursing course by visiting an open day and speaking with one of our lecturers.
Valerie is in her first year studying Children and Young People's Nursing; the most enjoyable aspect of the course is the fun practicals. Some fun facts about her include that she can recap a film having only watched it once, and she also likes to take random online quizzes.