Children's nurses diagnose, assess, and provide care for health issues among infants to teenagers, working in hospitals, clinics, and community settings. To become a Children's Nurse, you will need a BSc. (Hons) degree in Children's Nursing.  The three or four-year degree will include substantial practical work with young patients.

What are the university entry requirements for a children's nursing degree?

To apply to universities for Children's Nursing, you should have, or be working towards achieving a relevant Access to HE Diploma in Health Science. Or, alternatively, 3 A Levels with at least one in a science area (Human Biology, Biology, Physics, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Geography, or Maths). Universities can advise on their particular entry requirements and they also publish these on the UCAS website.

With the A Level route, you may also be expected to have a minimum of 5 GCSEs. With the Access to HE Diploma route, you are normally only required to have 2 GCSEs in English and Maths at Grade C or above. Access to HE Diplomas are normally aimed at adults 18+ returning to education or wishing to change to a new career. There are no upper age limits. The Diploma qualification is viewed as being equivalent to 3 A Levels. Access to HE can be studied from home via online learning or at a local college/academy.

To gain the required level of practical skills and competence to become a Children's Nurse, the time on your degree programme will be spent between theory and clinical practice. The theory part will be based within the university setting where you will have contact with other students and your tutors, and attend seminars and lectures. Clinical practice is where you will undertake supervised nursing placements within hospitals, schools and out in the community.
 

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What does a children's nurse do?

Children's nursing involves providing treatment, support, and care for young patients with various health conditions. They also help with growth, development, and preventive health education.

Children's nurses are crucial healthcare professionals. They work in conjunction with parents, carers, and other professionals, such as teachers, pediatricians, occupational therapists, and doctors. There are thousands of practicing children's nurses in the UK working in a wide variety of settings.

What personal attributes are needed to become a children's nurse?

Good communication skills and patience are both crucial for a Children's Nurse. You will need to be able to think creatively and individually tailor care plans for patients. Interpersonal skills are vital for coordinating all relevant information from parents/carers, teachers, and other professionals that will enable you to form a comprehensive care plan for each patient.

What are the pay and working conditions like?

• As a newly qualified nurse, your starting salary will be around £27,055 (Band 5) rising up the pay scale annually to £32,934
• As a specialist nurse, you can earn between £33,706 and £40,588 (Band 6)
• Typical salaries for advanced or highly specialised nurses range from £41,659 to £47,672 (Band 7)
• The Government have recently announced an increase across health sector employees over the next 3 years

Did you know?

• Children's nursing is crucial in early detection and management of health issues in children from infancy through adolescence.
• Many children require specialised nursing care that addresses both their physical and emotional needs.
• With specialised training, you can make a significant difference in the lives of young patients and their families.

How is your degree funded?

Studying to become a Children's Nurse allows you to apply for the standard student support package in the form of a student loan. Scholarships, bursaries, or grants may also be available, for example, through the university or your place of work. Click for more information on funding.
 

If you would like to complete an Access to HE in Children's Nursing with Academy Online Learning and obtain the level 3 Access Diploma in Health Science Professions for university entry, please complete the online enrolment form or contact us for more information by phone or email. Studying and achieving this qualification provides a flexible way of study as it is fully online and is recognised and accepted by UK universities.
 

Access to Children's Nursing Course