Nursing

Children's nursing is a distinct and demanding specialism within the nursing profession. Children are not simply small adults. Their physiology, psychology, communication abilities and developmental needs differ at every stage of childhood, and effective nursing care must be adapted accordingly.

Children's nurses also work closely with families, who are an integral part of the care environment, and must be skilled at communicating with and supporting parents and carers as well as with patients who may range from premature infants to teenagers.

At Hull, this three-year full-time programme prepares you for registration as a children's nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Council. You will develop the clinical knowledge and practical competence to care for children across the full range of paediatric settings, including hospital wards, emergency care, neonatal units, community services and specialist clinics. Clinical placements are central to the programme, taking you into real healthcare environments from early in your training and giving you experience of working alongside children, their families and the multidisciplinary teams that deliver their care.

You will study paediatric anatomy, physiology and pharmacology, child development, family-centred care, safeguarding and the ethical and legal dimensions of caring for children and young people. Communication is a particular focus, as the ability to speak and listen effectively with children of different ages and with their families is a fundamental professional skill.

On graduating and achieving NMC registration, you are qualified to work as a children's nurse across a wide range of settings. Many graduates develop further clinical expertise in areas such as paediatric critical care, oncology, community children's nursing or school nursing. Leadership, advanced practice and postgraduate study are well-supported long-term directions.