Under the plans, a quarter of practice hours could be simulated.
The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) has revealed plans to “modernise” and shed old European regulations for nurse training.
Under the plans, the regulator will give universities more flexibility on who can be admitted to courses and how they are run.
Universities will now be able to use simulated practice for around a quarter of the 2,300 practice learning hours that students need to qualify.
Entry requirements for pre-registration courses will also be relaxed, removing the need for at least 12 years of “general education” before starting a nursing or midwifery programme.
More types of practice placements will also be permitted as long as they are “relevant” to the course.
Broadest range of students.
Andrea Sutcliffe, NMC Chief Executive and Registrar, said: “It’s essential that nursing and midwifery education is accessible to the broadest possible range of students and prepares them to meet people’s changing and increasingly complex needs.
“That’s why we’ve drawn on evidence and best practice to propose changes that will widen access to courses and give students the best possible education that enables them to provide excellent care to people.
Ms Sutcliffe added, “We’re grateful to everyone who has collaborated with us to reach this point. Thousands of people and partners have shared their views and expertise, and we’re reassured by the support for our proposals.
“We’ll keep students, educators, and our stakeholders updated about these changes and any further work as we move forward and explore even more flexible options.”
