Could The Nursing Cadet Scheme Increase The Numbers Of Future Nursing Students?

The first England-based RCN nursing cadets began their clinical observation placements at Sandwell and West Birmingham (SWB) NHS Trust in June 2021.

The fifteen nursing cadets, aged 17 and 18, are from Holly Lodge Combined Cadet Force, based in the West Midlands.

The RCN Prince of Wales Nursing Cadet Scheme aims to give young members of uniformed organisations an introduction to nursing as a potential career.

The scheme runs in conjunction with both army and combined cadet forces and St John Ambulances Cymru and England. At present it operates in England and Wales only.

Should the scheme be rolled out to the other nations of the UK if possible? Comment Like ❤️ Reply below.

The scheme includes learning modules and an observational placement within their local health care region and is designed to run alongside their usual activities.

Once cadets have completed these, they submit a portfolio of their reflections and thus gain a completion certificate. Support is provided to help cadets take decisions on possible next steps, which can include a level 2/3 related diploma, a foundation degree, or an undergraduate nursing degree.

Do you think this introduction to healthcare could be used as an adjunct to nurse apprenticeships in addition to the other avenues mentioned?

Lindsay Meeks, Regional Director, RCN West Midlands, said: “These young people are our future workforce and it’s fantastic to see the partnership between Sandwell and West Birmingham Hospitals NHS Trust and Holly Lodge Combined Cadet Force working so well for the nursing cadets.”

The RCN Prince Of Wales Nursing Cadet Scheme aims to help cadets improve their confidence, skills and knowledge and raise awareness of careers in health care, including nursing.

The scheme was created in 2017 when the RCN was approached by HRH the Prince of Wales, in his capacity as an ambassador of the NHS. He proposed working in partnership with the nursing profession, affording opportunities for young people who otherwise would or could not consider nursing or other health and social care related careers.

Could additional, more practical avenues into nursing help persuade those either discouraged by having to undertake degree level courses or those simply unable to do so?

Nursing cadet Sukhpal Singh said: “The nursing cadet scheme has been so good. I’ve learned so much and gained an insight that health care roles are much more than just treating patients.

“The placement element is so important because you get to see what you’ve learned in practice, and actually see it in a real-life scenario.”

Please let us know what you think in the comments. Could the RCN cadet scheme be a way to increase the exposure of potential students to health care, in particular nursing, as a career?

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