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Free Nursing Associate Foundation Degree in Bristol

CostFREE
Duration2 years
DeliveryWork based
StartFlexible
Apply now →

About this course

Free FdSc in Nursing Associate. Work-based training at your workplace. You train while employed in health or social care, combining academic study with hands-on practice in your role. The course covers care assessment and planning, care delivery, decision-making, and working as part of an interprofessional team. Day release and two block study weeks per year keep learning manageable alongside work. The course typically takes two years. On completion, you'll be eligible to register as a nursing associate with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC).

Who this course is for

This apprenticeship is for individuals employed in health and social care who are motivated to progress with their nursing role. Successful learners will achieve a level 5 qualification and be eligible to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) as a nursing associate.

Entry requirements

Level 2 Qualifications 

Grade C/4 or above in English and Mathematics or equivalent (we accept Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths and English). 

Level 3 Qualifications 

A-level subjects: No specific subjects required.

EDEXCEL (BTEC) Diploma: No specific subjects required. 

You can also apply with an NVQ Level 3.

In addition, all applicants are required to complete:

Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and Occupational Health checks

What you will learn

  • You'll develop skills in assessing and planning patient care.
  • You'll learn how to deliver care effectively in a range of nursing settings.
  • You'll build decision-making skills to support registered nurses in your workplace.
  • You'll understand how to contribute to interprofessional care teams.
  • You'll apply academic theory directly to your day-to-day work practice.
  • You'll develop study skills supported by online and library resources.

How you will learn

You learn through a combination of work-based practice and academic study. Delivery is by day release, with two block study weeks per year (October and May intakes). Your progress is reviewed periodically with input from clinical partners. Assessment draws on both your academic work and your performance in practice.

What you will need to bring

UWE Bristol Frenchay Campus will confirm anything you need before you start. You will need to complete a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and an Occupational Health check as part of the application process.

Where next

Jobs you could do

  • Nursing Associate: registered with the NMC on completion
  • Healthcare Assistant: supporting registered nurses in clinical settings
  • Senior Care Worker: leading care delivery in health or social care
  • Clinical Support Worker: working across hospital or community settings
  • Theatre Support Worker: assisting in surgical and procedural environments

What you could study next

  • BSc (Hons) Nursing: a full nursing degree, leading to registration as a registered nurse with the NMC. The nursing associate qualification provides a recognised route into degree-level nursing programmes.
  • Specialist practice qualifications: short courses in areas such as wound care, medicines management, or mental health to deepen clinical expertise in your chosen field.
Apply on uwe.ac.uk →
Apply now →

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