Frequently Asked Questions

How do I apply for the Return to Professional Practice programme

I order to apply for this programme you are required to complete a University Application form, available on this website. The application form requires you to provide two suitable referees. The programme commences in September each year with the potential for an additional March intake depending on the number of applications. Applications for September 2016 will close May 31st 2016. Please contact the programme lead if it is the March 2016 intake you are interested in and complete the application form by November 24th 2016. There is an Open Day for applicants looking to join the March cohort on 21st November, 1 - 3pm in room G102, Northumbria University Coach Lane Campus, Benton, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE7 7XA.

What are the entry requirements for the programme?

First or second level registered nursing qualification Your NMC/HCPC registration must be lapsed. You cannot apply before this has occurred. Evidence of successful level 5 (Diploma) study

Are there any costs involved in attending the programme?

As the programme is commissioned in this region by Health Education North East, there are no fees for those students from this region. Travel costs are not available for travel to and from the placement or the University. Uniforms are provided by the University. There may be a small bursary attached although this is dependent on available funding.

When does the programme commence?

The programme commences each September (once per year) with the potential for an additional March intake depending on demand and recruitment.

Will I have an interview?

Yes, In line with national guidelines the interview process will be based on value based recruitment and a minimum interview score must be achieved. Should you be selected for interview this will take place within the University. A member of the programme team and a representative from the relevant clinical areas will be present. Interviews would normally take place in June/July (September intake) and December/January (March intake). All offers of a place on the programme are provisional and based on successful l Health, Disclosure and Barring Service clearance and two appropriate references. If students are unsuccessful at the interview stage they can seek feedback as to the reasons for this.

What is the course structure?

The programme attracts academic accreditation of 30 Level 6 (Degree level) points. Attendance at the University is 1 day per week. As well as attending University, students will also be required to successfully complete a minimum of 100 hours in clinical practice (2 days per week to ensure continuity of care provision). Students can complete extra hours if they wish. The number of hours is negotiated on an individual basis depending on the length of time students have not been practising.

How many assignments/essays are involved in the programme?

There is a written assignment of 2,500 words. In order to gain the academic credits students must successfully complete both clinical practice proficiencies and the academic assignment.

Where will my placement be?

Placements in South of Tyne could be in Gateshead, Sunderland or South Tyneside. Placements North of Tyne could be in North Tyneside, Newcastle or Northumberland.

What happens at the end of the programme?

Students who successfully complete the programme and wish to return to the professional register (NMC) are required to submit an application for reregistration. Three references will be required, one of which will be provided from the University by your academic supervisor. It is the student’s responsibility to complete this re registration process within six months. Those wishing to return to the HCPC register will be able to use the evidence collated on the programme in their application to re-register.

Application process?

In line with national guidelines, the application process will be based on values based recruitment. The closing date for applications is 24th November, and applications will be assessed against set criteria. Short listed candidates will be asked to attend for interview.