Midwifery

What is it?

Everyone knows midwives deliver babies. But not everyone knows they do a lot more besides.

Many people think being a midwife is all about being at the birth of a child, helping the mother and her partner as a new life begins.

 

That’s true, but the job goes well beyond that. You’re the professional who works with mum, her partner and maybe her family in pregnancy.

 

You help people get ready to be parents. You’re involved in postnatal care too. You offer support, education and advice to help the baby and its family get off to a good start.

 

(By the way, you don’t have to be female! There are more than 100 male midwives in the UK)

 

What are the good bits?

• Working closely with individuals and families
• You’re lead professional in the management of birth
• When you study Midwifery at university, your tuition fees are paid
• Lots of opportunities – travel, progressing to consultant level

What about pay?

£19,000 - £61,000

 

What skills and interests do I need?

• Communication, caring, helping
• Able to work independently and in teams
• Calm, plenty of stamina
• Practical and dedicated

What qualifications/training will I need?

There are different ways to become a midwife. You can study either for a diploma or for a degree. A Midwifery Diploma is typically two years in length and classed as a level five qualification. To apply for Midwifery you must be at least 18 and have a minimum of GCSEs or equivalent vocational qualifications (like NVQ Level 2). Other entry routes might also be available for example a relevant Access to HE course.

 

For a degree which is typically three years in length and classed as a level six qualification, you normally need to have level three qualifications to apply like A levels or a BTEC National Diploma in science and/or a health-related subject. Again other entry routes such as a relevant Access to HE course might also be accepted.

 

To find out more about the differences between a Diploma and Degree and the entry qualifications, it is a good idea to visit university websites. To help decide which is likely to be best for you it is a good idea to visit university open days and speak with staff and students studying on the courses.