Healthcare Careers

Childrens Nursing

What is it?

A children’s nurse cares for children who are sick, and offers support to their families.

Your patient might be a tiny newborn, or a teenager hurt in a road accident. Whatever their age, they need your care and reassurance – and so do the people who love them.

Children aren’t just mini-adults. Younger children, especially, can’t always describe where it hurts or how scared they are.

You need to be sensitive to pick up on their feelings about being ill or in hospital. And you’ll need the strength and confidence to cope professionally with the distress of parents.

If you’ve got the talent to be a children’s nurse, your training will give you the skills you need for a rewarding career. It can be a challenge, but there’s no greater job satisfaction in nursing than helping a critically ill child.

What are the good bits?

• Enjoyable, varied and satisfying work
• Lots of opportunities including overseas and private sector
• The NHS pays tuition fees, and you can apply for a bursary
• Career path leads up to consultant level

What about pay?

£19,000 - £61,000+

What skills and interests do I need?

• Sensitive and reassuring
• All-round communication skills
• Confidence to deal with difficult situations
• Motivation, dedication

What qualifications/training will I need?

You can study either for a nursing diploma or for a nursing degree. For a diploma you must be at least 17½ and have GCSEs or equivalent vocational qualifications (like NVQs or BTEC National Diplomas). For a degree you need qualifications like A levels or AVCEs in science and/or a health-related subject.

Compiled with reference to:
www.nhscareers.nhs.uk
www.nobarriers2uni.org

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