Chichester College and Royal College of Nursing pave the way for next generation of nurses in Sussex

Chichester College Group and the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) have launched a new training partnership.

Chichester College will deliver the Royal College of Nursing Prince of Wales Nursing Cadet Scheme, a specialist programme that has been developed to give 16-25-year-olds an introduction to careers in nursing, midwifery and allied health professions.

The programme includes health-related learning modules, delivered at the college supported by RCN staff.

The Cadets will be taught at Chichester College, using a simulated healthcare setting which mimics a hospital ward with technology and equipment which can be found in hospital or care settings. There they will also have access to a patient simulator, enabling them to replicate a number of real-life health scenarios in a safe space.

They will also take part in a 20-hour clinical observational placement withing a local healthcare setting.

Paul Rolfe, Associate Principal for Employers and Stakeholders at Chichester College Group, said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for young people to get a valuable introduction into these vital careers.

“We know there is a real need for more young people to enter nursing and health professions, so we’re delighted to be working with the RCN to deliver this programme.

“It will give young people the opportunity to develop some key skills, while also getting a flavour of the profession.”

Funded by NHS England South East, the first cohort of students at Chichester College will also mark the scheme’s first cohort in Sussex. It’s hoped it will recruit from the local community, using links with the Department of Work and Pensions to support and inspire young people who may not currently be in education or employment.

Harry Randon, Project Co-ordinator, RCN said: “We are delighted to partner with Chichester College, NHS England South East and local Sussex health and care providers to provide young people with the opportunity to experience careers in the health and care industry.

“The RCN nursing cadet scheme helps young people develop key skills to give them a head start as they continue their education or enter the workforce.”

To discover more about the RCN Nurse Cadet scheme, please visit: https://www.rcn.org.uk/professional-development/nursing-cadet-scheme