Program Overview

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Introduction to the Return to Practice Program

The Return to Practice program is designed for nurses who wish to return to their field of nursing in dynamic and challenging clinical environments. This program enables nurses whose registration has lapsed to return to practice.

About the Program

The program is a modular course that leads to registration with the NMC. We have an excellent reputation for nursing at Swansea, ranking among the top 10 in the UK for Nursing (Times Good University Guide 2024).

Who Should Apply?

This is a standalone module leading to NMC registration for nurses who have previously been registered with the NMC or have not met the requirements for revalidation or readmission. The module aims to prepare nurses to re-enter clinical practice with the skills, knowledge, and competence required for contemporary practice in their chosen field of nursing (adult, child, mental health, or learning disability).

How to Apply

We offer multiple start dates to make it easier for you to return to nursing.

• Apply for September 2025
• Apply for September 2026

Program Structure

The Return to Practice module will be delivered in both full-time and part-time modes. The initial academic component will be held in Carmarthen for six weeks, and for both modes, this is delivered part-time. Students will be in college for up to 7.5 hours per day (maximum of 3 days per week); the practice-based learning can be completed full-time (maximum of 40 hours per week) or part-time (maximum of 24 hours per week).

Admission Requirements

• GCSE English or Welsh first language at grade C (4) or above, or essential skills level 2 in communication passed after September 2015. Equivalent qualifications will be considered on an individual basis.
• Applicants must demonstrate their previous registration as a nurse or current registration with the NMC.
• If applicable, applicants must demonstrate they meet the NMC's English language requirements, which can be found at nmc.org.uk.

Tuition Fees

A limited number of places are available on this program. The Welsh Government will pay the tuition fees for all successful applicants. Each student will also receive a non-means-tested bursary of Ł3,000. Additional payments can be made to students who have childcare or other dependents.

Employability

The Return to Practice program allows nurses to renew their professional registration and work as qualified nurses in the NHS or another sector. While on the Return to Practice program, students will receive guidance and direction on preparing their CV and portfolio of evidence; applying for jobs; and preparing for interviews.

Assessment

• 3,000-word essay (worth 90% of the total mark) - A critical reflection on an aspect of their clinical practice experience related to the Return to Practice documentation (RPAD). The student will demonstrate application of NMC practice and behavioral standards (2018) for nurses, midwives, and nursing associates (The Code) in their clinical practice discussion.
• Safety exam - 1 hour (worth 10% of the total mark) - Students must achieve 100% in this exam (20 questions)
• Return to Practice Assessment Document (RPAD) (pass/fail) - Students will demonstrate a minimum of 360 hours in clinical practice and achieve their clinical competencies.

Additional Costs

• Enhanced DBS check
• Costs of GP (payable by applicants) to process the occupational health clearance form (funded by the College of Human and Health Sciences).
• Parking and travel to and from the campus.
• Costs of printing, photocopying, writing materials, and equipment (e.g., USB stick).

Virtual Open Day for Return to Practice

The Return to Practice program prepares nurses to return to their field of nursing in dynamic and challenging clinical environments, enabling nurses whose registration has lapsed to return to practice. Join us for a Virtual Open Day to meet our Return to Practice lecturers.

Register for the Virtual Open Day

Virtual Open Day

22/03/2025 __ 10:00 - 12:00 GMT

Learn More About Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) for Entry to Return to Practice

Updated Return to Practice

Contact Us

Contact our Student Admissions team for an application form via email

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