Cassandra joined the University of Bedfordshire in 2014 to study Adult Nursing, having spent time with nurses when she began running her own breastfeeding clinic at her local children’s centre when her children were born.

“I got chatting to the Community Nurses and decided I loved the sound of nursing and this was what I wanted to do”, said Cassandra, 38, from Kempston near Bedford.

During her course, Cassandra learnt the general nursing clinical skills and theory that is required for any nursing role.

“The course supplies a good foundation to the broad requirements of a nurse. With a bit of effort from the student, you can use learning opportunities and experiences to benefit your future role, whatever that may be.”

Naturally Cassandra was worried how she would fit in studying and work placements around her young family, but the course offered her flexibility.

“All my placements were very flexible and most of them fitted in around breakfast and after-school clubs. I have been very lucky with all my mentors, who have all been very accommodating.”

It was her final placement at a GP’s surgery where Cassandra discovered that Practice Nursing was her forte, and before long she was involved in running a series of clinics, covering wound care assessment and dressings, ECG’s, post-natal checks, diabetes annual reviews and injections and vaccines.

“My final placement at the GP Surgery prepared me the most for the role as a Practice Nurse as their skill competencies differ from those required in a hospital and I was running my own clinics within the second week of a thirteen week placement, and joining the other Practice Nurses for more specialist clinics.”

As she prepares to graduate this summer, Cassandra has fond memories of her time at Bedfordshire.

“I have made many friends along the way, and even if we lose contact through time, location, or just life in general, they will always be part of a really important time in my life and hold a special place in my heart.”