North Devon initiative to train nurses locally celebrates its first graduates

The first cohorts of BSc Nursing students based at Petroc in Barnstaple have officially graduated in a ceremony held at the town’s Guildhall.

Three groups of BSc Adult Nursing students and three FdSc Nursing Associate Degree Apprenticeship students graduated following a joint initiative between the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, Petroc and the University of Bolton.

The course was set up in 2020 as a response to the recruitment challenges faced by local healthcare providers.

It gives the opportunity for local people working in healthcare to develop their skills and become registered nurses and nursing associates.

“Attracting nurses to relocate to North Devon has been a challenge,” said Beverley Allingham, Director of Nursing, Northern services, Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust.

“Working with Petroc to train new nurses and nursing associates locally has been a great step in helping us develop our workforce and it was a real privilege to see local people graduating.

“They have had an eventful three years as their clinical placements took place during the pandemic.

“Each one has shown they are resilient, strong and prepared to provide the best healthcare to the people of North Devon,” she added.

Sean Mackney, Principal and CEO at Petroc said: "It was heartening to witness the success of our first nursing graduates.

“This initiative, in collaboration with Bolton University, underlines our commitment to addressing the critical skills shortage in nursing.

“These graduates are a testament to the power of local training in bolstering healthcare in North Devon."

The new nurses and nursing associates have all taken up positions at North Devon District Hospital and local GP practices.