The new chief nursing officer for England, Duncan Burton has urged students to consider a healthcare career through clearing.
NHS England has launched a campaign to highlight the many healthcare career options available through UCAS clearing.
So far this year 33,560 people in England have applied to study for a nursing degree and 7,290 have applied to become a midwife, but there are still spaces available. Applications to nursing degrees have so far fallen slightly this year compared to last year.
Burton said: “Nursing is one of the most rewarding and diverse careers going and alongside midwifery, these professions offer people the chance to make a real difference to people’s lives every day.
“Thousands of students are already on track to start nursing and midwifery degrees this September, but for any students still deciding on their next steps or rethinking their original choices, I would urge you to consider applying for a healthcare course through clearing – it’s not too late.
“For anyone who doesn’t want to go to university but would still like a future in healthcare, there are other great routes into the NHS – you could consider healthcare support worker roles which don’t require a degree but are a great entry point into a career caring for patients, or a nurse apprenticeship which is an alternative route to obtaining a nursing degree.
“Joining the NHS as a nurse was the best decision I ever made so if you think nursing could be for you, you can search ‘NHS nursing careers’ to find out more about the roles available and how to apply.”
Health and social care secretary, Wes Streeting, said: “I want to congratulate all the students getting their exam results this week. To those looking to begin a career in health and social care – you are the future of our NHS.
“Whether you’ve always wanted to work in this field or you’ve just discovered it, clearing is a great opportunity to explore the variety of roles on offer.
“The NHS saved my life and I will forever be grateful to the dedication of its hard working staff. Join the team and together we can save our NHS.”
