Hundreds of student nurses and over 30 exhibitors attended the careers fair, which was specific to the nursing profession. Bournemouth University (BU) welcomed employers from NHS trusts and health organisations from around the UK all hoping to recruit BU’s newly qualified nurses. The event gave student nurses, about to embark on their new careers, the opportunity to find out more about each organisation, and how to apply for positions.
The event is the fourth of its kind to be held at BU and organisation was headed up by Anne Mills, Academic Lead for Nursing Careers. She said, “I’m particularly pleased to see so many students making the effort to not only attend but actively engage with the wide spectrum of employers to explore options and ideas for their futures.”
Anne went on to say, “It’s particularly important, at this stage of the students’ careers, not to prejudge, presume or assume anything but rather get the facts first hand to make informed decisions about their immediate and longer term options.”
The exhibitors were a mix of general and more specialist organisations covering both general, mental health and children’s nursing, as well as elderly care and military medics. Army, RAF and Royal Navy recruiters were on hand to tell students about nursing opportunities in the forces both at home and overseas.
Paula Dalton-Kirby, Petty Officer Naval Nurse, was hoping to recruit the more adventurous student nurses to the Royal Navy. She said, “We work very closely with the Army and the RAF and it’s really just to let [student nurses] know what’s out there, what’s different. For anybody wanting a career with a little bit of adventure, a bit of travel and just something a bit out of the norm really, a little bit different.”
“It’s a lovely event and it’s great to see that there are opportunities for everyone no matter what you want to do. If you want to get out, travel, see the world then there’s so much out there and it’s great that everyone can come together to put an event like this on. It’s brilliant.”
Senior Matron, Cath Battrick, was recruiting for Southampton Children’s Hospital. She commented on the event, “I think it’s excellent, there’s been a good buzz.”
She also spoke about the qualities they were looking for in their new recruits, “We’re looking for passion and enthusiasm for the speciality for starters. That usually always comes through with children’s nurses. We’re looking for people who are looking to develop their careers, are keen to work hard – nursing is not an easy profession by a long shot – and are prepared to give a high standard of nursing care.”
More information on nursing courses at BU can be found on the BU website.
